The Chiefs and Elders of Senya Beraku have voiced their condemnation of ongoing land disputes with neighboring Gomoa Fetteh, in the Central region.
In a strongly worded statement released yesterday by the prominent figures; including Nenyi Kweku Kormitey III and Naase Nkwanta Otubah III, expressed deep dismay over what they describe as “unlawful encroachment” upon their ancestral lands.
The tensions, exacerbated by the use of “land guards” by Gomoa Fetteh, have resulted in violence, including the tragic death of a soldier, Lance Corporal Michael Danso.
Senya Beraku leaders extend their condolences to the soldier’s family and the Ghana Armed Forces while demanding respect for ongoing court proceedings regarding the land dispute.
The statement highlighted perceived bias from both local law enforcement and the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, towards Gomoa Fetteh’s interests, further escalating tensions. Senya Beraku leaders warned that continued disregard for their rights may force them to take drastic measures to protect their lands.
It stated that “We are profoundly disappointed by the apparent endorsement of these illicit activities by the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. The continuous support of the Kasoa-Senya Beraku enclave’s police towards the land guards from Gomoa Fetteh is unwarranted and unacceptable. Such bias only goes to worsen the already tense situation and undermines the rule of law.”
“…We caution that if this unjust behavior persists, and if the support from the police towards Gomoa Fetteh land guards continues, the people of Senya Beraku will be left with no choice but to defend our lands through any means necessary. We remind those land guards from Gomoa Fetteh that their possession of weapons does not grant them the liberty to trample on our rights and laws. We are a peace-loving people, but we will not hesitate to equip ourselves adequately to protect what is rightfully ours.”
They also cautioned against any land transactions involving Gomoa Fetteh, insisting that such dealings are illegitimate until the courts reach a verdict.
Furthermore, they urge developers to cease any activity on Senya Beraku lands immediately stating that “We wish to inform the public that Gomoa Fetteh has no legitimate claim to any lands while the matter is before the courts. Any involvement in land transactions through Kwesi Alhaji and the purported Gomoa Fetteh stool lands is illegitimate. Should the court rule in our favor, as we anticipate given the evidence presented by our chiefs and elders, we will assert our rights and evict all trespassers without leniency. Areas such as Jakaw, Kweikrom, and Kobina Andoh, among others, rightfully belong to Senya Beraku.”
They cautioned all individuals or entities developing Senya Beraku lands, particularly in Anapa Nsu and Millennium City, to cease immediately, or they will face the consequences in due course.
“We urge the public, especially investors, to respect our authority and engage with the chiefs and elders through proper channels if they intend to invest in the Senya Beraku lands.”
In a plea to the Ghanaian government, Senya Beraku leaders call for the withdrawal of military presence and direct intervention from President Nana Addo and Minister for Interior, Henry Quartey, to facilitate a peaceful resolution.
The statement concludes with an affirmation of Senya Beraku’s commitment to justice, heritage, and community harmony, underscoring the belief that dialogue and adherence to the rule of law can pave the way for a resolution.
