Two Asafo Companies promise peaceful Aboakyer Celebration

Winneba, April 25, GNA - The Tuafo number I and Dentsefo number 2 Asafo Companies in the Effutu Traditional Area have pledged a peaceful celebration of this year's Aboakyer festival. 'We want to assure all and sundry that the festival will by all means come off on May 2, 2015, as declared by the two Asafo Companies,Chiefs and Elders of Winneba in the Effutu traditional Area'.

Nana Otuboa Siripi II, Tufuhene of Effutu Traditional Area, made this known at a 'meet the Press' on this year's Aboakyer festival in Winneba on Thursday.

The Tufuhene said Neenyi Ghartey, Omanhene of Effutu 'has distanced himself from the festival for the past years due to obvious reasons, which bothers on security, and this has brought peace and unity.'

Nana Otuboa Siripi stated that suddenly, 'tension has started heightening in the Effutu Municipality, since the Omanhene indicated his intention to preside over this year's festival, which has obviously thrown out a gloomy picture'.

According to him, the Elders, Supi, Members of Otuano Royal Family and other stakeholders in the celebration of the festival are poised to ensure a peaceful Aboakyer.

Nana Otuboa Siripi said a committee, comprising representatives of all stakeholders and identified groups had been set up to ensure a successful festival.

The Tufuhene said all sponsorship packages should be directed to the committee or contact Nana Otuboa Siripi for direction.

Mr Kakrah Ghunney, Spokesperson for the Abuasuapanyin, Kweku Kyikyibi Gyan, appealed to President John Mahama to use his highest Office to ensure a speedy trial of the case pending before the Regional House of Chefs between Neenyi Ghartey and the Otunao Royal Family to ensure lasting peace.

When GNA contacted the Omanhene, Neenyi Ghartey VII for his version, he said, he still stands by his earlier statement to preside over this year's Aboakyer festival unless the security Agencies directs otherwise.

According to him, the Police had not informed him that his intention to preside over the festival has heightened tension in the town.

GNA