The Nananom of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Council in the Central Region have called for the immediate closure of the Effutu North Police Station at New Winneba following a deadly confrontation in the area.
The traditional authorities argue that the police facility was constructed on land belonging to the Gomoa people and not the Effutu Traditional Area.
The demand was made at a press conference held in the wake of the violent clash between residents of Gomoa and Effutu communities over a longstanding land dispute.
Spokesperson for the Gomoa-Ajumako Traditional Council, Nana Kojo Idan Opirim, alleged that the presence of the police station had heightened tensions and contributed to what he described as intimidation of Gomoa residents.
He also claimed that some of those involved in the recent confrontation with the police were not Gomoa indigenes but residents of other communities who had allegedly suffered intimidation from some Effutu residents.
According to Nana Idan, the police station was deliberately established at the disputed location as a means of intimidating and suppressing the Gomoa people.
The traditional authorities have subsequently given the government and relevant state institutions a one-week ultimatum to investigate the violence and ensure justice for those who lost their lives.
Nana Idan said the chiefs expect authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths and take urgent steps to restore peace in the affected communities.
He warned that failure to receive a satisfactory response within the stipulated period could force the Gomoa people to take further action.
The Nananom, however, maintained that their main concern is the protection of lives and property, as well as ensuring justice and lasting peace in the area.
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