Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Anyaa-Sowutuom, Emmanuel Adotey Allotey, has assured the public that the situation is under control following violent clashes during the climax of the Homowo Festival at Anyaa and Sowutuom on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Allotey explained that intelligence indicated the clashes were triggered after the son of a chief was shot, raising fears of retaliation.
“We received information that the chief’s son was shot during the festival, and this could have led to further tensions between the Omanjor and Sowutuom communities,” he said.
He noted that the police, in coordination with the Odorkor Regional Command, have reinforced security on the grounds to prevent further incidents.
“We have beefed up police presence, and officers are equipped with the necessary ammunition to ensure everyone’s safety,” he added.
Mr. Allotey revealed that the MCE for Ga North is also coordinating emergency MUSEC measures while he continues to oversee security in his municipality.
“We’ve been monitoring the situation for weeks, and we spoke with the chiefs ahead of the festival. That’s why initially the police went in lightly, but after the clash, we ensured they had the right resources,” he explained.
He further outlined the local response, saying, “We are meeting the families affected, sympathizing with them, and also talking to residents to maintain calm.
The chiefs will speak to their youth, and police will continue to engage the community to prevent further violence.”
The violence reportedly erupted due to a misunderstanding between supporters of two rival chiefs, which escalated into gunfire, disrupting the festival.
Some attendees attempting to leave the grounds were reportedly attacked at nearby Olebu.
Three people have so far been confirmed dead: Abubakar Ramadan Sarbah, also known as Nii Kwashiebu, Theophilus Nii Amu Kwadjan, and Joseph Shaibu Dodoo. Their bodies have been taken to the Police Hospital Mortuary for preservation and autopsy. Five others sustained injuries.
Mr. Allotey concluded by reassuring the public: “Security is under control, and we are doing everything necessary to ensure the peace of the town. The police are here, the chiefs are cooperating, and we urge residents to remain calm and support efforts to restore normalcy.”
Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy
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