The Nogokpo Voodoo Shrine in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta Region of the Republic of Ghana risks shut down for allegedly practicing trial by ordeal and invocations of the wrath of the gods.
This clarification was made by Mr. Joseph Ameyibor, the Ketu North Director of Human Right and Administrative Justice, CHRAJ, during the “Duamenefa” Social Intervention Program on the airwaves of Fafaa 100.3 Fm, Dzodze, in response to a petition from a senior police officer, chief inspector Paul Nuoku, to the Duamenefa Foundation of Fafaa 100.3 Fm for investigation and intervention.
Mr. Nuoku claimed his family members were issued a summons letter to appear before the shrine to answer questions of criminal defamation complaint by one Mr. Yaotsey Aladey and others. According to him, during the process of arbitration, he was subjected to a trial by ordeal, while other member of his family invoked the wrath of the gods.
In response to these allegations, the secretary to the Nogokpo shrine, Mr. Kodzo Adukpo also known as Sempley, confirmed on Fafaa 100.3 Fm, that the police officer was given a fair treatment during the arbitration, he was not forced to go through any trial by ordeal but he willingly opted to, an allegation the officer denied. This controversy between the two parties necessitated the call on the director of CHRAJ for an education on the subject matter. In reference to “ freedom of worship” enshrined in article 26 of the 1992 constitution of the Republic of Ghana, clause 2 of article 26 frown at subjecting people to dehumanizing traditional practices such as, trial by ordeal, invocation of the wrath of the gods, using human beings in servitude to the gods, etc. any shrine who indulges in these practices could be shut down
Mr. Ameyibor, also clarified that any summons issued by traditional shrines has no legal backing under the Constitution of Ghana. Emphasizing the supremacy of the Constitution, he explained that only a court of competent jurisdiction and traditional arbitration courts under the customary law have the authority to compel individuals to appear or respond to legal notices. Shrines issuing summons letters, is unconstitutional and practitioners must desist henceforth or risks closure of their shrines and possible imprisonment if found guilty
The public education initiative seeks to ensure that citizens are aware of their constitutional rights and are not misled or intimidated by authorities acting outside the law.
The campaign gained urgency when the Duamenefa Foundation, led by its Executive President and CEO of Fafaa 100.3 Fm, Mr. Ketaman Emmanuel Evortepe, began investigating the aforementioned petition in line with its mandate. During the phone in segment, Mr. Evortepe engaged the public to clarify the constitutional position. He emphasized that shrines do not have the legal authority to summon individuals or conduct trials. Under the Constitution, judicial power is vested in the courts, while traditional leaders may undertake arbitration strictly within the confines of customary law. Shrines, he reiterated, do not possess state-recognized adjudicatory powers.
The public education exercise has sparked considerable debate within the community. Some residents argue that court processes can be slow and financially burdensome, leading individuals to seek alternative avenues for dispute resolution. Others expressed concerns that certain traditional arbitration processes do not always address disputes satisfactorily, prompting some citizens to turn to shrines in search of swift remedies.
Despite these concerns, Mr. Evortepe addressed each issue raised, maintaining a firm focus on the constitutional framework, he urged citizens to comply only with legally recognized institutions.
He further stressed that Ghana’s democracy is anchored on the rule of law, due process, and the protection of fundamental human rights. Allowing unauthorized bodies to exercise judicial authority, he noted, could undermine public confidence in the justice system and expose citizens to potential abuse.
Mr. Evortepe also encouraged individuals who receive unlawful summons from unauthorized bodies to remain calm and seek legal advice. He advised that such matters may be reported to appropriate state institutions responsible for upholding justice and human rights.
Finally, he called on community leaders, youth groups, and civil society organizations to support efforts aimed at promoting constitutional literacy at the grassroots level. According to him, sustained public education is essential to preventing misinformation, protecting vulnerable persons, and strengthening respect for Ghana’s democratic and legal order.
Through this initiative, the Duamenefa Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to educating citizens on their constitutional rights, promoting adherence to the rule of law, and ensuring that traditional and spiritual practices do not conflict with Ghana’s legal framework.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by Isabella Emmanuella Evortepe, UEW – Fafaa 100.3 Fm