The Council’s spokesperson and Chairman of the Asafotufiami Festival Planning Committee, Nene Agudey Obichere III, announced the decision to lift the ban at a meeting of the ATC on July 22, 2024.

Radio Ada was banned in 2022, prohibiting coverage of the Asafotufiami Festival.

This was after the station had reported extensively on a salt mining concession granted to Electrochem Ghana Limited — a deeply divisive subject that is currently before the courts.

Though the radio station was in operation and covering other events, the ban prevented it from covering the prestigious Asafotufiami Festival for two years.

Nene Obichere III says the lifting of the ban is a reconciliatory gesture, emphasising the festival’s objective of healing and unity.

“Things cannot go on forever,” he told The Fourth Estate. “Radio Ada is back. We are happy they are back. Nobody was happy about that decision. Now it is time to [review] that decision and it has been done.”

Also at the meeting where the decision was announced were four influential traditional priests who are custodians of the Songhor Lagoon and other influential traditional power brokers, who had abstained from the festival in the last two years due to the controversies surrounding the Songhor Lagoon concession.

The priests perform an important role before, during and after the festival by pouring libation and performing other rituals.

They boycotted their traditional roles and sided with those who have been challenging the Electrochem lease.

The situation escalated on January 13, 2022, when armed men attacked Radio Ada’s premises, beat staff and vandalised equipment, an incident linked to their reportage on the lease agreement.

Radio Ada, MFWA react

Meanwhile, Radio Ada has welcomed the decision to lift the ban and allow them to cover the Asafotufiami Festival. The station’s Programme Officer, Gideon Amanor Dzeagu, expressed gratitude to the traditional authorities and reaffirmed the station’s commitment to community development and its watchdog role as enshrined in Ghana’s 1992 constitution.

“We are humans, and they are our fathers,” he told The Fourth Estate. “If they say we have wronged them and called to engage us to resolve it amicably, then we will use the platform to ask for their forgiveness. We are always ready to collaborate with them and serve the people as their mouthpiece, as we used to do,” he added.

The Media Foundation for West Africa has also applauded the decision.

“We hope this will mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation between the radio station and the traditional authorities in the interest of the development of the area,” the MFWA’s Manager for Freedom of Expression, Muheeb Saeed, said.

Dzigbordi Osabutey, a market woman and an ardent listener of Radio Ada, expressed excitement about the decision to lift the ban on the station.

She said as the community prepares for the 2024 Asafotufiami Festival, the reintegration of Radio Ada symbolises a step towards healing and fostering collaboration for the development of the Ada Traditional Area.

“For sometime now, if you don’t go to the festival, you won’t know what happened or how it went.

“You won’t even know there is festival unless you go there. We can’t do anything without Radio Ada, so we are very happy that they are back to do what they know how to do very well,” she said and added that the Radio Ada ban had taken a lot away from the festival.

The Asafotufiami Festival is a major cultural event in the Ada Traditional Area. It commemorates ancient wars and serves as a homecoming celebration for the Ada diaspora.

The ‘Asafotu’ are groups of warriors who fire their muskets and hoot at their enemies in celebration.

For decades, Radio Ada has played a pivotal role in broadcasting the festival’s activities since the station’s inception in 1998, making its exclusion in 2022 a significant issue.

In August 2022, The Fourth Estate reported that the Ada Traditional Council had barred Radio Ada from covering the Asafotufiami Festival for the use of “unrefined language.”

Following the publication, the Ghana Journalists Association, MFWA and other pro-media institutions after a fact-finding mission to Ada, described the ATC’s decision as an affront to media freedom.

Background of the ban

The tension between the ATC and Radio Ada began when the radio station, known for its critical coverage of local issues, notably the Songhor Lagoon lease agreement, was omitted from the media list invited to cover the 85th edition of the festival in 2022.

Despite Radio Ada’s efforts to rectify what it initially perceived as an oversight; the ATC confirmed that their exclusion was intentional.

In a letter dated August 1, 2022, the ATC placed restrictions on Radio Ada, prohibited the station from setting up a stage at the festival grounds and barred interviews with traditional leaders.

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District Chief Executives of Ada West and Ada East, Sampson Tetteh Kpankpah and Ms Sarah Dugbaki Pobee, respectively, unveiled the festival theme: “Upholding the discipline of our forebears as a tool for the sustainable development and unity of Ada.”

The Mankralo of Ada, Nene Agudey Obitchere III, speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III, said that the festival served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by their forefathers to secure the land for the current generation.

Nene Obichere noted that the experiences of their ancestors instilled values of peace and unity in them.

He stated that the festival’s key feature was its ability to bring together Ada indigenes from around the world, renewing family ties and resolving differences, which fosters socio-economic development.

“Asafotufiami resonates with most Ghanaian communities, especially the Ga-Dangmes, and it reminds us of the heroic traits of our forebears in fighting for self-preservation and fending off domination.

“Our forebears journeyed from far-off lands and battled aggressors and opposing parties on their way here. The art of war also taught us valuable lessons about creating alliances to consolidate our gains,” he said.

The festival, he noted, also attracted tourists to the area, saying Ada was noted for its distinct tourist attractions, including the estuary and beautiful islands, complemented by modern recreational centres such as Aqua Safari and Treasure Island.

He commended Electrochem Ghana Limited for its exceptional contribution to the celebration of the Asafotu Festival in recent years, including this year.

Nene Obitchere III also appreciated the support from sponsors such as Premium Motors, Ramani Distribution Company, and Interplast Ghana Limited.

The occasion was graced by all the chiefs and queens, Asafoatseme (warlords), traditional priests, and various youth groups of Ada adorned in their traditional wares.

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The Council emphasized that this issue not only affects the health of the Songor Lagoon but also jeopardizes the project’s viability and the socio-economic development of the region.

During a visit to the Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III, the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area and President of the ATC, made this appeal to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

Accompanied by a delegation of Chiefs and Queen Mothers, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III updated the President on various matters pertaining to the overall progress of the Ada Traditional Area.

Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III commended President Akufo-Addo for the courageous decision to grant a license for commercial investment in the salt project, despite the controversies surrounding the Songor Lagoon.

He expressed optimism for the future of Ghana’s salt industry, stating that since Electrochem Ghana Limited began operations in 2021 as the investor in the project, Songor has witnessed significant improvements, garnering praise from the Ada community and the entire nation.

The Chief acknowledged the tremendous increase in salt production, both in terms of quantity and quality, with Electrochem revitalizing this national asset to yield 1,000,000 metric tons of top-grade salt annually, catering to both local and export markets.

Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III expressed hope that the current efforts would lead to further advancements in the salt industry, thereby contributing to the national economy.

However, the Chief highlighted the necessity for state intervention to enhance the project’s progress.

He emphasized that the activities of illegal salt miners pose a significant hindrance to the work being carried out and pose a threat to the investors operating in the concession.

Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III regarded this situation as unacceptable to the people of Ada and appealed to President Akufo-Addo to employ his authority in supporting the traditional area in combating the menace of illegal salt mining.

He stressed the urgent need for the Minerals Commission and other relevant agencies to take decisive actions to remove illegal operators, as this responsibility should not solely rest on the company or the traditional leaders.

The Chief called upon the state security agencies to swiftly address and bring to justice those within the Ada traditional area who are engaging in illegal activities with no regard for the law.

Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III assured the President of the unwavering commitment of the chiefs and people of the Ada traditional area to ensure the success of the Songor salt project.

President Akufo-Addo expressed his satisfaction that the chiefs and people of Ada recognize the significant benefits that can be derived from the Songor Lagoon salt project.

He emphasized that the project’s advantages extend beyond the Ada area and have the potential to greatly contribute to the country’s economic prosperity.

The President cited Nigeria’s reliance on salt imports from Brazil to meet its one-million-ton market demand and emphasized that the development of the Songor project is in Ghana’s best interest.

President Akufo-Addo urged the chiefs to offer their full support to the project’s investors.

Addressing the request for state security, the President assured the traditional council that he would raise the matter with the appropriate security agencies to ensure that those who prioritize personal gain over the community’s welfare are apprehended and disciplined.

He emphasized the need to combat illegal salt mining and other forms of illegal mining to protect the environment.

Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo accepted the chiefs’ invitation to visit the project site and participate in the annual Asafotufiami festival scheduled for August 3, 2023.

According to the Traditional Council, the activities of some emerging groups like the Ada Songor Lagoon Association (ASLA) are clear indication of political influence pushing them into doing things that undermine the traditional governance system at Ada.

“Evidence of such involvement is that the petition purported to be the position of Adali and presented at the demonstration was signed by a known political party propagandist and not chiefs who are the traditional leaders.”

The Ada Traditional Council was reacting to issues surrounding the operations of the Songor Lagoon for Commercial Salt Mining by Electrochem Ghana Limited (EGL) and the demonstration by the so-called ASLA in Accra.

According to the Council, the group is becoming ungovernable and the use of threats and defiance cannot achieve results where negotiations, lobbying and other approaches could be employed.

Stating some facts right, the Traditional Council enumerated that the name ASLA which has become synonymous with opposition to the Chiefs and the Investor, was not in existence at the time of the grant of the mining license to EGL.

“The only recognized group who were into local salt production and operating under the name DESPA has been allocated a place for local salt production, known and called as DESPA area. That notwithstanding, the ATC believes in addressing the concerns and expectations of its entire people and have had various engagement with ASLA which includes some facilitations from the Tema Regional Police command.”

According to the statement released by the Traditional Council, they have to contend with the notion that the granting of the entire Lagoon to EGL by Government was creating a monopoly in the Production of Salt in Ada, averring that “We know that the Locals want more space and participation in salt production. If you have more one commercial producers with each of them requiring a substantial space for its production, how much space would be left for the locals? The ATC therefore holds the view that the arrangement that would allow more space for locals is a better option to having numerous operators.”

It said, the ATC had to engage with the Investor to agree to the Community Pans concept and under that plan, EGL is constructing Community pans for over thirty communities abutting the Lagoon at no cost to the communities and again has been providing free brine for local salt production.

“The only action required of these communities would be to harvest the salt which has been produced at no cost to them as of now, the areas where EGL is fully operational have had their Community Pans and actively mining salt therefrom and these communities include, Nakomkope, Adjumanikope and Agbedrafor. Those of Bonikope, Toflokpo and Kposem communities are at advanced stages of completion.”

It noted the roll out of these Community Pans would run in tandem with the expansion of EGL activities to all Communities and that they give opportunities to the Communities currently mining from their community Pans to tell their own stories.

It also mentioned that the gentle man agreement that the Traditional Council had with the investor, 12,423acrs of the total concession was agreed upon with the investor to operate for 50years and another 25years renewal.

“However, government in his own wisdom legally allocated the total 41000-acre concession to the investor for 15years. This came as a welcoming news to the Traditional Council that finally the entire Songor Lagoon will see a facelift that will transform into more direct and indirect job creation, increase in salt production and an increase in our royalty and grand rent that the Traditional Area receives and to achieve a total transformation of Ada.”

According to the Traditional Council, during their last multi-stakeholder’s engagement, which had Lands Commission, Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands, ASLA participation, ASLA pushed a position that EGL should allocate the local salt miners some areas and provide them with brine and be given a price for the production of salt as obtained in out-growers arrangement; and it was agreed that ASLA sends a proposal to EGL for consideration.

The Traditional Council however condemned ASLA for going to Accra to demonstrate whilst the Council was waiting for the out-growers model to be actualized.

According to the family, Christian Atsu’s contribution to the growth of football and humanity cannot be forgotten.

Speaking with President Nana Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House, the Mankralo of the Ada Traditional Area, Nene Agudey III, described Christian Atsu as a philanthropist who helped to improve the lives of many people.

“If your Excellency and the Ministry will lead in the process to ensure that there is a monumental thing done in his honour, to exemplify to all that it is good to be kind to other people in this life, we would like you to do something in the honour of Christian Atsu so that it will serve as an example to all and sundry in this country.”

President Akufo-Addo has said government will offer a state-assisted burial for Christian Atsu, the former Black Stars player who perished in the Turkish earthquake.

In the meeting, the President said the country is devastated by the news of Atsu’s death.

The family of Christian Atsu paid him a visit at the Jubilee House on Monday, February 27, 2023, to officially inform him of the death of the former Black Stars player.

The meeting was also attended by officials of the Ghana Football Association led by its president, Kurt Okraku.

“Our responsibility is to give you enough support that you need. It can never erase the loss of this brilliant man. I want the Chief of Staff…to make sure that we organise a state-assisted funeral for Christian Atsu depending on the date the family and GFA will select. Everything will be done from the point of view of the government to make sure he gets a dignified exit. That is my duty and responsibility as a president to make sure that happens,” President Akufo-Addo added.

The president also urged Atsu’s family to fast-track the burial process.

“I don’t know what your plans are, but I think that the sooner we get this unfortunate episode behind us the better for all of us… With that said, the decision as to when the funeral will take place is still up to the family as our customs demand.”

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Christian Atsu was tragically trapped under the rubble of the earthquake that hit some parts of Turkey and Syria on February 6.

Atsu’s lifeless body was recovered on February 18 and brought back to Ghana on February 19.

According to the council, darkness has taken over the land while death has deprived them of their hero.

In a statement, the Council said it is unfortunate that 45 seconds earthquake took away the life of the footballer suddenly.

However, they said they take consolation in the fact that the good works and gestures of Atsu are speaking louder on his behalf all over the world. 

Residents and natives have, therefore, been urged to remain calm despite how tragic and sad the incident is.

“Footballers especially the young ones from Ada and Ghana at large are really devastated about the news of your demise and are still struggling to come to terms with the incident.

“We pray for strength for the family in this difficult moment as we go through this dreary path,” the statement noted.

The Council has pledged to collaborate with the family and government to give the believed son of the land a befitting burial.

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The mortal remains of the Ghana international who perished in the devastating earthquake in Turkey arrived in Ghana to a solemn welcome on Sunday.

On board Turkish Airlines, it was received at the Kotoka International Airport by his family, Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Information Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Deputy Sports Minister, Evans Bobie Opoku, Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Okraku Mantey among others.