The Paramount Chief and President of the Teshie Traditional Council, Gbetsoolo Nii Ashitey Akomfra III, has condemned the killing of three young men during the Homowo Kpokpoi Sprinkling Ceremony, describing it as a desecration of Teshie’s customs.
He called for justice, unity, and support for the bereaved families, stressing that the violence had disrupted what should have been a sacred and peaceful festival.
The clashes, which occurred on Tuesday, August 26, left three people dead and several others injured. Nii Akomfra said the tragedy had replaced the festive spirit with fear, panic, and economic uncertainty. He expressed condolences to the victims’ families and urged calm within the community.
The chief revealed that ahead of the festival, the Traditional Council had picked up intelligence about possible violence and informed security agencies. Despite assurances of protection, his palace came under attack with gunfire, stones, and broken bottles, with even his kpokpoi bearer sustaining a gunshot wound.
Responding to claims that he orchestrated the violence, Nii Akomfra dismissed the accusations as baseless and defamatory, insisting no chief would attack his own people and guests. He apologised to invited dignitaries and visitors who were traumatised by the incident.
He further criticised the disregard for Homowo traditions, stressing that the festival is sacred and symbolised by the colour white, representing peace. Instead, he said, militants dressed in red and accompanied by motor riders in red headbands stormed the area in what he described as a deliberate provocation and an attack on Teshie’s cultural identity.
Nii Akomfra noted that while minor altercations have occurred during Homowo in the past, this year’s use of firearms, machetes, and other weapons had crossed a dangerous line. He urged security agencies to treat the killings as high-profile homicide cases and ensure perpetrators face justice without fear or favour.
He appealed to residents to unite in the wake of the tragedy, describing the murders as a painful moment that should bind the community together. He also encouraged anyone with evidence—videos, documents, or eyewitness accounts—to assist police investigations.
Assuring the bereaved families of his commitment, the chief said: “Let all Teshimei, especially the bereaved families, be rest assured that the institutions of state will not rest until the killers are found and brought to book.”
Source: Adomonline
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Homowo: Two dead, several injured in violence at Teshie Kpokpoi sprinkling ceremony
