The Chief of Omanjor, Nii Ayitey Tackie I, has recounted how his entourage was attacked while performing traditional rites during the Homowo Festival, leading to violent clashes.
According to him, the violence erupted on Friday, August 30, 2025, when his team was confronted while on their way to sprinkle kpokpoi.
“We were on our way to sprinkle kpokpoi when a group blocked our path. As we tried to find out why, they started shooting. I asked my people to retreat, but some were attacked from behind,” he told Adom News.
He further alleged that festival-goers from nearby communities, including Pokuase, were also assaulted on their way home.
“From pictures and eyewitness reports, four people have died and several others are injured. The police have taken the bodies,” he added.
Calling on President John Dramani Mahama, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Minister for the Interior, Nii Ayitey Tackie I demanded a full investigation to restore peace and deliver justice.
Meanwhile, Naa Omanyiaba, Queen Mother under the Ga Paramount Stool, condemned the killings as a “stain on Ga tradition,” stressing that such violence dishonors the spirit of Homowo.
Police confirm casualties, link clashes to chieftaincy dispute
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service confirmed three deaths—Abubakar Ramadan Sarbah (Nii Kwashiebu), Theophilus Nii Amu Kwadjan, and Joseph Shaibu Dodoo. The bodies have been deposited at the Police Hospital Mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Four others sustained injuries, including gunshot and machete wounds. While Enoch Amevor has been treated and discharged, Samuel Adjei, Nathaniel Doku, and Frederick Lartey (Nii Obrafour) remain on admission at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and Ridge Hospital.
Police indicated that the clashes stemmed from a dispute between supporters of two rival chiefs during the kpokpoi rites, which escalated into gunfire and brutal attacks.
Security reinforcements and warning to traditional leaders
To prevent further disturbances, additional security personnel have been deployed to Sowutuom, Anyaa, and Olebu.
The Accra Regional Police Command has also warned traditional leaders and their supporters to strictly adhere to agreed security protocols during festivals.
“Any act that could incite violence will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” the statement stressed.
Investigations and intelligence-led operations are ongoing to track down all those involved.
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