A festive celebration in the Eastern Region turned deadly on Wednesday, October 22, when a shooting broke out during the Odwira Festival at Ahwerease in the Akuapem South Municipality.
Police confirmed that one person was killed and four others are receiving treatment for gunshot wounds after a violent confrontation erupted between two traditional leaders’ factions.
Authorities say 34 suspects have been arrested and are in custody at Aburi, assisting investigators. Officers also recovered a pump-action shotgun and a pistol from the scene.
According to police reports, tensions flared after the Abokomahene of the Asona Family, Nana Semenhyia Asakrofa, performed a traditional rite to lift the ban on drumming and noise-making — a ritual that officially marks the beginning of the Odwira Festival. A dispute then broke out between Nana Asakrofa and the Abimuhene of Ahwerease over who had the authority to carry out the ceremony.
The disagreement quickly spiraled out of control, with gunfire erupting among some of the young men gathered at the scene. Four people were hit, and one later died from their injuries.
Eastern Regional Police PRO, Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh, told Citi News that the retrieved weapons would play a key role in the investigation. He added that the police are determined to ensure peace throughout and after the Odwira Festival, emphasizing that anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law.
“We want to assure the public that the police will not tolerate any acts of violence that threaten public safety,” Tetteh said. “Those involved will be held accountable.”
The Odwira Festival, a centuries-old cultural celebration among the Akuapem people, is meant to symbolize unity, purification, and renewal — but this year’s event has been overshadowed by tragedy.
