The Duamenefa Foundation has exposed a case involving a fetish priest who allegedly deceived the Nutakor family into believing that a human being—specifically a virgin girl—must be offered to the gods of the Tormife Shrine for permanent ritual servitude. Following an investigation, the Foundation concluded that the claim was false, unlawful, and a gross violation of human rights.
The Nutakor family reported that a misunderstanding in their household led a female relative to invoke the wrath of the gods at the Tormife Shrine, headed by Trornua Legbavi. Following a death in the family, fear of spiritual retribution prompted the family to seek guidance from the shrine.
At the shrine, the family was referred to a fetish priest for further consultation. It was during this engagement that the priest allegedly demanded a virgin girl be sacrificed and offered to the gods permanently to avert further misfortunes—a demand that alarmed and distressed the family.
Disturbed by the request, the family petitioned the Duamenefa Foundation, known for its commitment to human rights and community protection. The Foundation conducted a thorough investigation involving traditional authorities, legal experts, and human rights bodies. Through this investigation, the Foundation successfully saved the Nutakor family from having to offer a human being into ritual servitude. After confirming the demand was unconstitutional and illegal, the Foundation handed the matter over to the traditional rulers for arbitration.
The traditional arbitration was led by Torgbui Kpemini Gawu, who convened the local council to deliberate on the matter. The arbitration process was held in accordance with Ghanaian customary law, with representatives from the Duamenefa Foundation present to observe proceedings.
Following the hearings, the council found the fetish priest guilty of deceiving the family and fined him accordingly. The Tormife Shrine was sanctioned for negligence in its referral of the family to the priest. The Nutakor family was cautioned for misrepresenting facts in their initial petition.
The case has sparked public concern, with community members questioning whether the priest’s actions were part of a broader pattern and whether there exists any collusion between the shrine and the priest. These concerns have led to calls for further investigations by civil society and law enforcement.
The Duamenefa Foundation reiterated that any demand for human beings to serve deities under coercion is unconstitutional and unacceptable. The Foundation urged all shrines to carry out their spiritual duties appropriately and responsibly, respecting human rights and the dignity of individuals. It also calls for increased public education on citizens’ rights, protection of vulnerable individuals, and oversight of traditional practices that violate human rights.
The Nutakor family expressed gratitude to the Foundation and traditional authorities for freeing them from the distress and hopes their case will prevent future abuses.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM radio
Source: fafaafmonline.com