Mafi Adidome Chiefs condemn ritual murder allegations, call for Chieftaincy law reforms
The traditional leadership of Mafi Adidome has strongly condemned recent ritual murder allegations linked to their community, denying any local involvement and calling for reforms to empower chiefs in the fight against crime.
In a statement released by the Head of Communications, Dr Gideon Quarcoo, the Dufia of Mafi Adidome, Togbe Kwasinyi Kakaklolo Agyeman, described the reported acts as “barbaric, backwards, and anti-social.”
"The alleged culprits are from communities near Adidome, they are not citizens of Adidome, even though they live on our lands," Togbe Agyeman clarified.
His remarks come in the wake of the Ghana Police Service’s arrest of six individuals, including a fetish priest, in connection with the murder of a 25-year-old mason, Nelson Anyena, and the discovery of two additional bodies buried at a shrine.
"While I acknowledge various belief systems exist in societies, no cultural or spiritual justification can excuse acts that undermine the sanctity of human life," the statement read.
Dr Quarcoo indicated that Togbe Agyeman had proposed reforms to the Chieftaincy Act, particularly calling for a review of Section 63, which he said limits the authority of chiefs to sanction or manage criminal behaviour.
"We welcome propositions by the government to reform the institution, especially addressing redundant provisions in Section 63 of the Act," he said, arguing that restored traditional sanctions could help combat such crimes.
Togbe Agyeman noted that current legislation has significantly weakened the powers of traditional rulers, making it difficult for them to enforce discipline or combat emerging social vices in their jurisdictions.
"Mafi Adidome remains a peaceful, hospitable, law-abiding, and business-friendly community," Dr Quarcoo emphasised on behalf of the traditional council.
The reassurance comes as the town prepares for its annual Unity Festival, a major economic and cultural event for the region.
Togbe Agyeman extended condolences to the victims' families while pledging full cooperation with authorities.
"To the bereaved families, we extend our deepest condolences. The people of Mafi Adidome stand with you in sorrow and in the pursuit of justice," the statement said.
To bolster security, the traditional council has also established a local task force to collaborate with the police in identifying and monitoring potential criminal elements.
As investigations continue, the Mafi Adidome traditional council has announced plans for community sensitisation programs on crime prevention and plans to review local bylaws regarding spiritual practices.
"We must protect both our traditions and our people's safety," Dr. Quarcoo said.
