Member of Parliament for Anyaa Sowutuom, Emmanuel Tobbin, has urged residents to remain calm after violent clashes marred this year’s Homowo Festival in the constituency.
The clashes, which erupted following a misunderstanding between supporters of two rival chiefs, quickly turned deadly when gunfire broke out. Three people were killed, while five others sustained injuries.
Speaking to Citi News on Monday, September 1, 2025, Mr. Tobbin condemned the violence and stressed the need for peace in the community. He called on the police to act swiftly by arresting the perpetrators and ensuring justice.
“It was really uncalled for. Even if there were disagreements, we should have sat down to resolve them peacefully. Too many people have guns, and at the slightest provocation, they pull them. The police must take action,” he said.
The lawmaker further appealed to both factions to embrace dialogue as the only sustainable path to peace, emphasizing that violent confrontations only deepen divisions.
He also urged the security services to intensify their presence in the area, restore calm, and reassure residents of their safety. “The police must bring those involved to book and restore peace to the community,” he added.
The Homowo Festival, celebrated annually by the Ga people, is meant to promote unity and tradition. However, recent disturbances in Anyaa Sowutuom have raised concerns about the increasing role of chieftaincy disputes in fueling violence.
