Accra Regional Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into violent clashes that disrupted the climax of the Homowo Festival at Anyaa and Sowutuom on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
According to a statement signed by Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Region, the violence erupted during the traditional sprinkling of Kpokpoi, the ceremonial food of the festival. A misunderstanding between supporters of two rival chiefs reportedly escalated into an exchange of gunfire, sending panic across the celebration grounds.
The situation worsened when some attendees attempting to leave the scene came under further attack at nearby Olebu, resulting in additional casualties.
Three people have been confirmed dead: Abubakar Ramadan Sarbah, also known as Nii Kwashiebu; Theophilus Nii Amu Kwadjan; and Joseph Shaibu Dodoo. Their bodies have been deposited at the Police Hospital Mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Four others sustained injuries of varying degrees. They include Enoch Amevor, who has since been treated and discharged, as well as Samuel Adjei, Nathaniel Doku, and Frederick Lartey, popularly called Nii Obrafour. The injured are receiving treatment at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and Ridge Hospital.
In response, the police command has deployed additional personnel to restore calm in the affected areas and launched intelligence-led operations to identify and arrest those involved. The command has also cautioned traditional leaders and their supporters to strictly adhere to security arrangements and avoid conduct that could further endanger public peace.
The Homowo Festival, an annual celebration observed by the Ga people to commemorate victory over famine, is one of the most important cultural events in Accra. This year’s celebration, however, was overshadowed by violence linked to long-standing chieftaincy disputes, raising concerns about the recurring security threats such conflicts pose during traditional festivities.
The police have assured the public of their commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice and called on residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations.
