Mr. Kofi Gede has been arrested by the Akatsi South Police for allegedly practicing voodoo without a license, planting dangerous charms leading to the death of a young girl, terminating other people lives with juju contracts, thereby putting residents’ lives at risk.
The arrest followed a petition submitted by Mr. Ali Mammah of Avadre community in the Akatsi South District of the Volta Region to the Executive President of the Duamenefa Foundation and CEO of Fafaa 100.3 Fm, Mr. Emmanuel Ketaman Evortepe, requesting an investigation into claims that his wife, Madam Ete Fometu, had buried a charm at the entrance to his room, leading to mysterious sickness of their eight year old daughter.
According to the petition, the traditional rulers initially instructed the Hunor Gede and Co to remove the charm to save the life of the young girl but they refused. When the Duamenefa Foundation began investigations, the child tragically died. To prevent further harm, the Foundation collaborated with traditional rulers and other relevant institutions, such as the NCCE, and the Center for National Culture for public arbitration to unravel the mysteries surrounding the allegations
During the arbitration, Mr. Kofi Gede reportedly admitted to giving the charm to Madam Ete Fometu after being consulted by the mother of Etey Fometu, Madam Dagbi Powder. Madam Dagbi explained to the arbitrators that her daughter’s marriage was in trouble and she requested her intervention hence she consulted Hunor Kofi Gede, known for his juju and expertise, unfortunately, the juju charm backfired leading to the death of their daughter, whereas, Mr. Gede did not have a license to operate as a voodoo practitioner. Further allegations surfaced that in previous cases, he was contracted to provide “juju powers” to a community member, which was used against another person, resulting in the victim’s death. He confirmed this and explained that the charm he had provided was called, Avu metsoa nyita o, to wit, A Dog Cannot Carry the Head of a Cow,” and that if used against someone, it would cause their head and throat to swell, leading to death and that he had succeeded in doing.
Another allegation stated that Mr. Gede had provided someone with a “Gari Juju,” which, along with his other actions, was seen by traditional rulers as violating customary norms and practices.
Representatives of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) of Akatsi South Municipal Assembly, led by Madam Emefa Attipoe, were present during the arbitration to educate the public. According to her, the Constitution of Ghana allows freedom of worship , however, the constitution does not permit the use of your religion to the detriment of the vulnerable, for such is an affront to the provisions of the Constitution, therefore the law must apply
Community leaders have expressed concern over the growing use of unlicensed spiritual practices, which they say are creating fear and mistrust among residents. Many are calling for stricter regulation of such practices to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable community members.
Legal experts have noted that while traditional and spiritual practices are part of Ghanaian culture, any act that endangers life or violates public safety falls under criminal law. They stress that unlicensed practitioners can face severe penalties if their actions result in harm or death.
The traditional rulers have also expressed appreciation for the Duamenefa Foundation, commending their collaboration in ensuring the investigation continues effectively and in a manner that protects the community.
The Akatsi South Police have urged anyone with information about similar cases to come forward and continue to work with traditional authorities and civic institutions to investigate and prevent further incidents.
By Hutor Dziwornu
Edited by Isabella Emmanuella Evortepe, Fafaa 100.3 Fm
Fafaa Fm Information For Intervention