A family dispute in Anloga Hafiakor in the Anloga District of the Volta Region has taken a dramatic turn, with a husband, wife and their son accusing one another of spiritual attacks, invocation of deities, and the use of voodoo practices, prompting an investigation by the Duamenefa Foundation.
The dispute, which has generated concern among residents and community leaders, reportedly involves allegations of illness, spiritual intimidation and family conflict, with all three parties blaming one another for their respective conditions.
According to a petition submitted to the Duamenefa Foundation by Mr. Yao Xebidzi, the husband of Madam Avorkliya, who is currently unwell and believes his condition is linked to the invocation of the wrath of the Afetorku deity by her wife.
Mr. Xebidzi stated that consultations with traditional oracles allegedly revealed that his illness was spiritually connected to the deity invoked by his wife.
Following the petition, the Duamenefa Foundation contacted his wife, Madam Rose Avorkliya, to obtain her response to the allegations.
In her account, Madam Avorkliya admitted invoking the wrath of the Afetorku deity but insisted that her actions were not directed at her husband. Instead, she alleged that the invocation was aimed at their son, Mr. David Xebidzi, whom she accused of insulting her without provocation and allegedly invoked ancestral spirits against her.
Madam Avorkliya further alleged that her husband possesses a spiritual charm known as voodoo “Atisese,” which she believes was used against her. She claimed that she is currently bedridden and suffering from an illness that medical personnel have been unable to diagnose. According to her, hospital examinations reportedly revealed no specific condition, although she was informed that her blood level was dangerously low.
The allegations have since escalated into a complex family conflict, with the husband, wife and son each accusing one another of being responsible for their illnesses through spiritual invocation attacks
Concerned about the potential consequences of the dispute, the Duamenefa Foundation stated that its primary objective is to protect individuals from allegations of spiritual attacks and facilitate peaceful resolution through the collaboration with lawful agencies, dialogue, mediation and lawful traditional processes.
As part of the investigation, the Foundation received information indicating that Torgbi Avege had summoned officials of the Afetorku shrine, where Hunor Abakpi serves as the chief priest. However, the invitation was reportedly not honoured.
The Foundation subsequently contacted the shrine to seek clarification. During an interaction with the Executive President of the Duamenefa Foundation, Mr. Emmanuel Ketaman Evortepe, Hunor Abakpi confirmed that the summons had reached the shrine but acknowledged that it was not honoured.
According to him, the decision was influenced by the conduct of one of the parties involved in the dispute, who had allegedly failed to comply with directives previously issued by shrine authorities.
When questioned by Mr. Evortepe on whether ignoring the invitation from Torgbi Avege was appropriate, Hunor Abakpi reportedly admitted that it was not and expressed regret on behalf of the shrine.
Mr. Evortepe, later engaged representatives of Torgbi Avege’s Palace on air interactive session, where Torbokor Zormelo, during the interrogation conveyed an apology on behalf of the shrine for failing to honour the invitation. The apology was subsequently accepted by Tobokor Zormelo on behalf of the palace.
Mr. Evortepe emphasized that the Foundation’s foremost concern is the safety and well-being of all family members involved in the dispute. He stressed that efforts are being made to prevent any harm arising from the allegations while ensuring that all parties are given a fair hearing.
He also appealed to representatives of Torgbi Avege’s Palace to invite all relevant stakeholders, such as the NCCE, CHRAJ, CFNC, GPS and the Duamenefa Foundation to the upcoming arbitration proceedings so that the matter can be addressed openly and peacefully.
The dispute has reportedly affected relationships within the wider community, with neighbours and relatives expressing concern about the growing tensions among the family members.
Some residents say the allegations have created fear and uncertainty within the area, while others have called for restraint and patience as traditional authorities and mediators work toward a resolution.
Community elders have also appealed to the parties involved to embrace dialogue and reconciliation, warning that continued accusations could further deepen divisions within the family.
The involvement of both traditional and spiritual institutions has sparked broader discussions within the community about the role of customary beliefs in resolving family disputes. While some residents support traditional mediation mechanisms, others believe structured dispute-resolution processes should play a greater role in addressing such conflicts.
Meanwhile, the Duamenefa Foundation has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all parties are heard fairly and that every effort is made to prevent further escalation of the matter.
The Foundation further noted that traditional rulers remain custodians of the land and are empowered under customary law to preside over arbitration and mediation in disputes of this nature. It therefore urged individuals and institutions to respect invitations issued by traditional authorities, emphasizing that cooperation is essential for achieving lasting peace and reconciliation.
By Hutor Dziwornu
Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by Isabella Evortepe, UEW/ Fafaa 100.3 Fm