We do not recognize Akofena as leader of Kristo Asafo Mission — Kantaka family

The family of the late Apostle Emeritus Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Kantaka, has rejected the alleged installation of Israel Nana Kwadwo Safo, known popularly as Akofena, as leader of the Kristo Asafo Mission.

The family argues that it does not recognize any such leadership declaration, describing the development as inconsistent with the wishes of the late founder.

The clarification comes in the wake of a shooting incident at Kwabenya on Sunday, June 21, which left former Gender Minister, Sarah Adwoa Safo, injured during an attempted installation ceremony.

"We do not recognize any purported installation or assumption of leadership by Mr. Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena that is inconsistent with the directives of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo," the family said in part of a statement issued on Monday.

They noted that Adwoa Safo, who is also the Head of the Kwadwo Safo Family, is responding positively to medical treatment after the incident.

The family further disclosed that the alleged succession arrangement in favour of Israel Safo was revoked in 2024 by the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo.

It explained that although Israel Safo was initially named successor in 2017, the decision was later reversed due to concerns over the management of the Mission’s affairs and business entities.

According to the statement, the late founder subsequently appointed his daughter, Adwoa Safo, as head of the family and outlined a revised succession framework excluding Israel Safo.

The family also addressed the events leading to the shooting incident, stating that the disputed installation ceremony prompted legal action and attempts to serve court processes on Israel Safo.

"Accordingly, the family dissociates itself from any claim by Mr. Israel Safo that he is acting on behalf of the Kwadwo Safo Family or with the authority of the family," it added.