Central Tongu, Oct 3, GNA, The chiefs and people of Mafi-Avakpedome in the Central Tongu District have conducted cleansing and purification rites to restore the sanctity of Togbe Avakpe, the revered deity of the community, following a sacrilegious act that desecrated the land in December 2024.
The rites, which began on September 29, 2025, and climaxed on October 2, 2025, became necessary after the killing and secret burial of Nelson Anyana, a 28-year-old mason, by some youths in the community. The act, later uncovered through state investigations, was described as an abomination that stained the dignity of the shrine and cast a shadow over the entire Mafi area.
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Togbe Awudza Adabla XV, Avafiaga of the Mafi Traditional Area and Dufia of Mafi-Avakpedome, explained that the purification was both spiritual and moral renewal for the people.
“By this rite, we say Never Again! Never again should any individual or group bring such disgrace to our land, to our deity, and to our people,” he declared. He stressed that prosperity could only come through farming, fishing, craftsmanship, and perseverance, not bloodshed or ritual killings.
The Chief also announced that no shrine would be erected without the consent of his palace, assuring that traditional authorities would work closely with security agencies to clamp down on criminal acts that tarnish the image of Mafi.
Togbe Ngorgbea XIII of Mafi Vodza, who chaired the event, expressed confidence that the gods had accepted the purification rites and restored spiritual balance to the community. He called on parents and elders to instill discipline and cultural pride in the youth to prevent them from falling prey to misguided influences.
Togbe Agbozo Daku III, Dufia of Mafi Kumikpo, condemned the growing interest of some youths in ritual practices, stating, “No amount of blood sacrifice can bring wealth or success. True prosperity comes from honest labour and respect for our traditions.” He pledged to collaborate with Togbe Awudza Adabla XV and security agencies to intensify vigilance and education.
Zikpitor Martin Gozah, the Stoolfather, urged the youth to channel their energy into productive ventures such as agriculture, apprenticeships, and education. He also appealed to religious and opinion leaders to support traditional authorities in sensitising the youth on the dangers of ritual killings and the importance of upholding peace and dignity.
The rites, marked with traditional rituals, prayers, and communal activities, reaffirmed the community’s cultural values and commitment to peace and unity. The ceremony also formed part of broader efforts by traditional leaders in Tongu to safeguard youth from harmful practices, restore community reputation, and strengthen collaboration with state authorities.
Background
The death of Nelson Anyana, suspected to be a ritual murder, shocked the Central Tongu District in December 2024. He went missing after last being seen with his girlfriend, Augustina Fiawoyife. Police investigations revealed that the crime was allegedly orchestrated by Wisdom Hedidor, who sought a human body for rituals in exchange for GH¢7,000.
Homicide detectives later exhumed Anyana’s body from a shrine at Gblorkope, along with other human remains at a shrine in Mafi-Avakpedome. Six people were arrested in connection with the incident, which sparked public outrage and drew national attention.
