Mr. Vincent Karl Ekuago, leader of Synagogue Kingdom Revelation Church, has failed to appear before the traditional arbitration court of Togbi Ahorsu of Aflao Viepe in the Ketu South Traditional Area, following llegations that he, Pastor Ekuago, initiated Mr. Emmanuel Nutsugah, through anointing an unknown anointing oil, and Emmanuel later began experiencing a strange illness. The matter is currently being investigated by the Duamenefa Foundation, which is seeking to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged initiation and the claims made by the Nutsugah against the Pastor, Ekuago, who later claimed he is not a pastor but a “friend of God”
The petition was submitted to the Duamenefa Foundation after petitions emerged that Mr. Karl initiated Mr. Nutsugah as a pastor. According to the petition , Mr. Nutsugah began developing a strange illness after the alleged initiation.
During the investigation, Mr. Karl admitted to the Duamenefa Foundation that he indeed initiated Mr. Nutsugah, stating that it was in preparation for a particular program and to enable Mr. Nutsugah function in his absence. However, further interactions revealed additional concerns. Mr. Karl, during the investigation, stated that he does not believe in the totality of the Bible, that he, Karl Ekuago, is writing his own version of the Bible.
Further findings by the Duamenefa Foundation during earlier interactions also revealed that Mr. Karl had not undergone any legally recognized or appropriate theological training to operate a church where he teaches people. Investigators also indicated that he does not possess any license or recognized authority that permits him to initiate anyone as a pastor. Several other issues emerged during the investigation, raising additional concerns that contributed to the decision to refer the matter to traditional authorities for arbitration under customary law.
The arbitration was led by Torgbui Ahorsu, supported by other traditional rulers and representatives from relevant institutions including the National Commission for Civic Education and the Centre for National Culture. During the first session, Mr. Karl appeared but insisted that the traditional rulers should not address him with any clergy titles, stating he is not a man of God and should instead be called a friend of God. The session was subsequently adjourned.
On the next arbitration date, Mr. Karl failed to appear. According to Torgbui Ahorsu, one Mama Ayaba, a family member of the Ekuogo, later contacted him and stated that Mr. Karl woupd not be present for the second session because Mr. Nutsugah, the alleged victim must be present during the arbitration.
Torgbui Ahorsu questioned why this issue was not raised on the arbitration day when all arrangements had been made. Following intervention by the Duamenefa Foundation, both parties agreed on another date, March 5, 2026. Surprisingly, Mr. Karl and his representatives failed to appear.
In a bid to resolve the matter, the traditional rulers took proactive steps and went to see Mr. Emmanuel Nutsugah, the victim in person. During the visit, he reportedly expressed numerous lamentations about his condition and the circumstances surrounding the alleged initiation. Ultimately, he stated firmly that he would not appear anywhere for further arbitration or proceedings, effectively closing off his participation in the matter.
The developments have sparked discussions among members of the community and religious observers, who question the legitimacy of Mr. Karl’s activities as a church leader. Many have expressed concerns about the proliferation of unregulated spiritual practices and the potential harm they may pose to followers. Observers have urged authorities to ensure that religious institutions comply with both legal and customary regulations.
Meanwhile, the Duamenefa Foundation, led by its Executive President and CEO of Fafaa 100.3 Fm has emphasized its commitment to conducting thorough investigations into all petitions received, noting that the matter has highlighted gaps in the oversight of unregistered religious bodies. The foundation stated that it will continue to gather evidence and document all interactions to provide a clear report to the relevant authorities.
Legal experts from the human rights and administrative justice, CHRAJ, led by the Ketu North Municipal Director, Mr. Joseph Ameyibor, have also weighed in, noting that the failure of both parties to fully engage with the arbitration process could result in the case being pursued in formal courts. They highlighted that customary law provides a platform for mediation and reconciliation, but when parties refuse to cooperate, formal legal intervention may be necessary to resolve disputes and protect the rights of affected individuals.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by: Isabella Emmanuella Evortepe, UEW – Fafaa 100.3 Fm