The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North in the Eastern Region, Samuel Awuku, has condemned the violence that disrupted the Larteh-Ahenase Odwira Durbar, urging traditional authorities and residents to resolve their differences through dialogue and established channels.
The violent incident occurred during the Odwira Festival on Saturday, October 3, 2026, following a confrontation between rival groups reportedly linked to a dispute involving factions from Larteh Kubease and Larteh Ahenase.
The confrontation reportedly escalated into gunfire, with a local chief sustaining a gunshot wound to his hand.
The disturbances disrupted the cultural celebration and raised concerns about the safety of residents and participants at the event.
Security personnel were subsequently deployed to contain the situation and prevent further escalation. The police reportedly used tear gas to disperse the crowd, while additional security personnel, including military personnel, were deployed to maintain order and protect residents.
The joint security presence remains in the area as engagements with community stakeholders continue to help restore and sustain peace.
Reacting to the incident, Mr Awuku, popularly known as Sammi Awuku, strongly condemned the violence and said disputes should not be allowed to undermine the community’s rich cultural heritage or put lives and property at risk.
“I strongly condemn the acts of violence witnessed during the Larteh-Ahenase Odwira Durbar,” Mr Awuku said in a statement shared on social media.
His comments come shortly after the community marked 200 years of its rich heritage, a milestone he said should reinforce the need for unity, peace and respect for the traditions that bind the people together.
“Having just celebrated 200 years of our rich heritage, we must not allow disputes to define our town or put lives and property at risk,” he stated.
The Akuapem North MP commended the security agencies for their efforts to contain the disturbances and prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
He also appealed to Nananom and all other stakeholders involved in the traditional boundary disputes to use appropriate traditional, legal and institutional mechanisms to address their differences.
“I commend the security agencies for their efforts and appeal to Nananom and all relevant stakeholders to use the appropriate channels to address these traditional border disputes,” Mr Awuku said.
He further urged residents and all parties involved in the dispute to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could deepen tensions or lead to further violence.
Mr Awuku stressed the need for dialogue and peaceful engagement, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the safety of residents and the preservation of the community’s heritage.
“I urge everyone to remain calm, exercise restraint and let dialogue and peace prevail,” he said.
The violence has renewed concerns over tensions surrounding traditional boundaries and competing claims involving sections of the Larteh community.
With security personnel maintaining a presence in the area, stakeholders are expected to continue engagements aimed at preventing further clashes and finding a peaceful resolution to the underlying issues.
Mr Awuku’s appeal adds to calls for traditional leaders, community representatives and residents to channel their grievances through recognised mechanisms rather than resorting to confrontation or violence.
By 1960news.com
