A month after the brutal murder of a popular chopbar operator at Anloga in the Volta Region, the family of the deceased has resorted to spiritual intervention to uncover the culprits behind the crime. Frustrated by the inability of security agencies to make progress in the case, the family has turned to the thunder god, Togbi Zakadza, at the Nogokpo Yewe traditional temple to assist in identifying those responsible for the heinous act.
The decision to invoke the thunder god stems from the family’s determination to seek justice and bring closure to the matter. To proceed with this spiritual investigation, the family sought and obtained permission from the Dufia of Anloga and Dome Fiaga of the Anlo State, Togbi Zewu IV. The traditional leader granted the family the authority to beat the gong-gong, an essential cultural ritual to inform the community about their intent to engage the services of the Nogokpo Yewe shrine.
In a letter dated January 19, 2025, Togbi Zewu responded to the family’s request, underscoring the importance of notifying the community about their spiritual pursuit. He stated, “I received your letter requesting me to grant you permission to beat gong-gong at Anloga town as a condition of Yewe Shrine at Nogokpo to begin their spiritual search. The purpose of beating the gong-gong is very necessary because it is a way of making the town aware of your intention of seeking divine intervention.”
The beating of the gong-gong, a traditional means of communication in the Anlo State, serves as a public declaration of the family’s decision to involve spiritual forces in solving the murder case. This act signifies a call to the entire community to be aware of the proceedings and the expectations tied to the spiritual search.
The gruesome nature of the murder shocked the Anloga community, leaving residents in fear and outrage. The chopbar operator, a beloved figure in the area, was known for his generosity and strong ties to the community. His untimely death has not only devastated his family but also left a void in the lives of many who relied on his services and kindness.
The family’s recourse to the Nogokpo Yewe shrine reflects a growing reliance on traditional and spiritual practices in instances where conventional justice systems appear to falter. In many parts of Ghana, spiritual consultations are often sought to address unresolved crimes, particularly those with profound emotional or cultural significance. The shrine at Nogokpo, renowned for its spiritual powers, has been a place of last resort for individuals and families seeking justice.
Togbi Zakadza, the thunder god of the Yewe shrine, is revered for his ability to mete out justice and expose wrongdoers. The shrine is believed to have the power to compel truth and accountability through spiritual means, a process often referred to as a ‘trial by ordeal.’ The family’s decision to involve the shrine demonstrates their unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those responsible for the crime face the consequences of their actions.
The community’s reaction to the family’s decision has been mixed. While some residents fully support the move, believing that spiritual intervention will succeed where human efforts have failed, others remain skeptical or cautious about the implications of invoking traditional powers. However, the prevailing sentiment is one of hope that this step will bring much-needed clarity and resolution to the case.
The beating of the gong-gong is expected to draw widespread attention and mark the beginning of a series of spiritual rituals at the Nogokpo shrine. The process, which involves invoking the thunder god, is anticipated to be intense and exacting, with the ultimate goal of identifying the perpetrators of the murder. Those familiar with the shrine’s practices emphasize the seriousness of the undertaking and the severe consequences for anyone found guilty through this spiritual process.
The Anloga community, now on high alert, is awaiting the outcomes of the spiritual search. The case has sparked broader conversations about the role of traditional practices in modern justice systems, with many advocating for a harmonious integration of the two. While the reliance on spiritual intervention highlights gaps in law enforcement, it also underscores the enduring significance of traditional beliefs and institutions in addressing societal challenges.
As the family proceeds with the spiritual search, they remain resolute in their quest for justice. Their actions reflect a deep-seated belief in the power of traditional mechanisms to uncover the truth and restore balance. The hope is that this step will not only bring closure to the family but also serve as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers, reinforcing the message that crimes will not go unpunished.
This case has reignited discussions on the need for stronger collaboration between traditional authorities and state institutions to enhance the delivery of justice. Community leaders and stakeholders are urging the government to invest in improving the capacity of security agencies while recognizing the complementary role that traditional practices can play in maintaining law and order.
As the family of the deceased chopbar operator prepares to engage the Nogokpo Yewe shrine, the Anloga community and the nation at large are watching closely. The outcome of this spiritual intervention could have far-reaching implications for the intersection of traditional and modern justice systems in Ghana. More importantly, it represents a glimmer of hope for a grieving family seeking answers and accountability in the face of tragedy.
The memory of the late chopbar operator continues to loom large in the hearts of those who knew him. His life, marked by generosity and hard work, is a testament to the resilience of ordinary Ghanaians who contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. As the search for justice unfolds, the family and the community remain united in their determination to honor his legacy by uncovering the truth and ensuring that justice is served.
