The Duamenefa Foundation has cautioned against what it describes as deceptive practices allegedly carried out by some spiritual practitioners, warning that such actions can create fear, misinformation, and unnecessary conflict within families and communities.
The Foundation made the call during the Duamenefa Social Intervention Programme aired on Fafaa 100.3 FM, where its Executive President, Mr. Ketaman Emmanuel Evortepe, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting truth, justice, and peaceful coexistence through lawful and transparent means.
According to Mr. Evortepe, experiences from several intervention cases handled by the Foundation have revealed instances in which individuals were allegedly misled by claims presented as spiritual directives, resulting in distress, confusion, and disputes among affected families.
He cited a case involving the Nutakor family of Nogokpo, which petitioned the Foundation over allegations that the Tormife Shrine in Anloga had demanded a virgin girl to be placed into servitude as a condition for resolving a family matter and proceeding with burial arrangements.
Mr. Evortepe explained that following investigations conducted by the Foundation in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including traditional authorities and state institutions, it was established that the deity associated with the shrine had not made any such demand.
According to the Foundation, the investigations suggested that the claim originated from information provided during a divination process, which subsequently created fear and anxiety among family members.
He noted that the intervention helped prevent what could have become a serious violation of the rights and welfare of an innocent young girl.
Mr. Evortepe described the case as an example of the potential consequences of misinformation and urged individuals who provide spiritual guidance to exercise honesty, responsibility, and professionalism in their dealings with the public.
He further stressed that traditional beliefs and spiritual practices should not be used as instruments for deception, exploitation, or manipulation, particularly where vulnerable persons may be affected.
The Executive President warned that the Foundation would continue to collaborate with relevant authorities and would not hesitate to report cases involving alleged deception, exploitation, or violations of the law to the appropriate security agencies for investigation and action.
The Foundation noted that many disputes brought before it often arise from fear, misinformation, or unverified claims that are accepted without adequate scrutiny. It therefore encouraged community members to seek clarification from recognized authorities before acting on information that may have significant consequences for individuals or families.
According to the Foundation, several intervention cases initially believed to have spiritual causes were later found to involve misunderstandings, miscommunication, or inaccurate information. It argued that such experiences underscore the importance of thorough investigation and responsible decision-making.
Mr. Evortepe reiterated that authentic cultural and spiritual practices should promote peace, unity, moral values, and community development rather than fear, division, or actions that undermine human dignity.
He also called on traditional leaders, opinion leaders, and family heads to intensify public education efforts aimed at helping community members identify and avoid deceptive practices. He emphasized that stronger collaboration between traditional authorities and state institutions remains essential in addressing sensitive issues effectively and peacefully.
The Foundation further reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that disputes are resolved through lawful and transparent processes that uphold justice and respect for human rights.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Evortepe stated that spiritual and traditional practices should serve the welfare of communities by promoting harmony, guidance, and development. He stressed that any practice that seeks to deceive, exploit, intimidate, or cause harm to others is unacceptable and contrary to both the law and the principles of peaceful coexistence.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by Isabella Evortepe