This is a respectful appeal to the Ghana Police Service and the National Security apparatus.
Peace, justice, and respect for traditional authority can only flourish where truth is distinguished from speculation, and where law prevails over misinformation. In every society, particularly within revered traditional institutions, allegations must be carefully examined before they are accepted as fact or allowed to shape public opinion.
The unfolding events in Gbese call for sober reflection rather than hasty judgment. It is becoming increasingly evident that the Gbese Dzaasetse, Nii Okai Kasablofo V, neither accepted a bribe nor received an SUV or any other inducement from Nii Armah Okpah, nor did he install him as Caretaker of Gbese in the absence of Nii Ayi Bonte II. If this reflects the true position, then the erroneous impression created against his person ought to be corrected in the interest of justice and fairness.
As a matter of facts, if any chief be set aside in Ga Mashie today, it is Nii Armah Okpah, for the greatest taboo never committed in Ga Mashie, an offence that warrants outright destoolment for defiling the land. Yet my beloved brother is on errands with the Sacred Scepter of Gbese with revengeful passion fostering his hidden animosity on the most revered personalities in Gbese.
For many years, Nii Okai Kasablofo V has been regarded by many as one of the most trusted and respected figures within the Gbese Palace. His long-standing service, loyalty to the late chiefs, and commitment to preserving the customs and traditions of Gbese have earned him considerable respect. Such a reputation should not be diminished by assertions that have not been fairly and independently established.
The circumstances surrounding the present dispute also raise important questions that deserve careful and impartial consideration. If allegations of inducement were indeed true, observers may reasonably ask why the same individual allegedly benefiting from such arrangements would later become the subject of reported attempts at destoolment. Such apparent inconsistencies reinforce the need for objective investigation rather than reliance on assumption or public speculation.
Equally significant is the question of authority. What customary or legal mandate, if any, empowers a caretaker to initiate or purport to carry out the destoolment of the Gbese Dzaasetse or Nii Ashirifi Mettle-Nunoo, Head of the Gbese Kreshie and Abordiamor We Family? If no such authority exists under customary law, then any attempt to exercise those powers risks undermining the integrity of the traditional institution and weakening respect for established customary governance.
Traditional leadership is sustained through clearly defined roles, lawful succession, and respect for established procedures. Family heads, Dzaase elders, and other recognised custodians of tradition exist to preserve order, continuity, accountability, and unity. Whenever temporary authority is perceived to exceed its lawful limits, confusion, division, and instability may follow.
For these reasons, it is essential that all stakeholders exercise restraint, uphold discipline, and remain committed to truth. Sustainable peace cannot be built upon rumours or competing narratives but upon verified facts, fairness, and respect for both customary law and the rule of law.
Unfortunately, there is concern that some national security personnel deployed to the area may be receiving information primarily from individuals who are themselves directly involved in, or connected to, the disputes. If this is the case, it risks creating an incomplete or distorted understanding of events. National security institutions are therefore encouraged to consult a broad range of credible and independent sources in order to properly assess the underlying issues, protect vulnerable persons, and promote lasting peace and stability in Ga Mashie.
Objective investigations, rather than partisan narratives, remain the surest path to justice.
The future of Gbese depends not only on the preservation of its customs but also on unwavering commitment to truth, discipline, fairness, and the rule of law. Where these principles are honoured, peace and unity will endure for generations to come.
Osɔfo Nii Naate Atswele Agbo Nartey
