The Duamenefa Foundation has cautioned the public against invoking the wrath of the gods in settling disputes or personal grievances, stressing that such practices are unlawful and inconsistent with the laws of Ghana.
According to the Foundation, resorting to spiritual pronouncements or invoking deities during conflicts can heighten tensions within communities and undermine lawful approaches to dispute resolution.
The caution was issued by the Executive President of the Duamenefa Foundation, Mr. Emmanuel Ketaman Evortepe, during a live edition of the Foundation’s Social Intervention Programme on Fafaa 100.3 FM.
Speaking during the programme, Mr. Evortepe stated that invoking the wrath of the gods as a means of seeking justice or revenge is not recognised under Ghana’s legal system and could amount to a criminal offence under the Constitution of Ghana.
He referenced the recent controversy surrounding the Agortime-Ziope and Afife Agamefe shrine-related matter, where a woman allegedly invoked the wrath of the gods after her house was reportedly set on fire. It was further alleged that some individuals later died, leading to widespread public concern and debate.
Mr. Evortepe explained that although the woman may have acted out of pain and frustration following the destruction of her property, the law does not permit individuals to seek justice through spiritual retaliation or pronouncements.
According to him, all grievances and disputes must be addressed through lawful and recognised judicial or traditional mechanisms that operate within the framework of the Constitution.
He further warned that persons who invoke the wrath of the gods could face investigation, prosecution, and possible imprisonment under the laws of Ghana, adding that persons accused under such circumstances may also become subjects of legal investigations.
Mr. Evortepe stressed that every citizen is expected to operate strictly within what is permitted by law, emphasizing that respect for legal procedures is essential for maintaining peace, justice, and order within society.
He added that the Duamenefa Foundation sympathises with the woman whose property was allegedly destroyed and strongly condemns acts of destruction and wrongdoing. However, he stressed that the Foundation does not support unlawful responses or actions capable of escalating tensions.
According to him, the Foundation remains committed to promoting justice through lawful and peaceful means while ensuring that all actions align with the provisions of the Constitution of Ghana.
Mr. Evortepe further explained that while emotions, cultural beliefs, and traditional practices may influence how some individuals react to disputes, such reactions must still be guided by the rule of law.
He reiterated that the mandate of the Duamenefa Foundation is to promote peacebuilding, lawful mediation, and constitutional dispute resolution, emphasizing that the Foundation does not endorse any form of misconduct or unlawful retaliation.
The caution from the Foundation comes amid increasing public debate over the role of traditional beliefs and spiritual practices in conflict resolution, particularly in situations where emotions run high and parties resort to spiritual declarations as a means of seeking justice.
Observers have noted that such practices can complicate investigations, create fear, and spread misinformation within communities if not properly addressed through lawful and transparent processes.
Some legal and community commentators have also highlighted the need for stronger civic education on constitutional rights and lawful channels for seeking justice, especially in rural and peri-urban communities where customary approaches to disputes remain influential.
Meanwhile, traditional leaders across various communities continue to play important roles in mediation and peacebuilding, often collaborating with state institutions to maintain harmony. However, many also maintain that customary practices must be carefully separated from actions that may violate national laws.
The Duamenefa Foundation has therefore reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with both traditional authorities and state institutions to promote peaceful and lawful dispute resolution across communities.
Mr. Evortepe further appealed to state institutions responsible for public education and law enforcement to intensify awareness campaigns among shrine leaders and traditional authorities on the legal implications of invoking the wrath of the gods.
He also urged custodians of shrines and traditional institutions to educate their followers on lawful practices in order to prevent future incidents and encourage peaceful coexistence within communities.
By Hutor Dziwornu
Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze