Accra: The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of chiefs who are allegedly allocating and selling lands on waterways, wetlands, and flood-prone zones in parts of Accra. The paramount chief made these remarks while visiting communities devastated by flooding caused by the recent spillage of the Weija Dam. Many residents in these low-lying areas have seen their homes, shops, and properties submerged, forcing them to flee with whatever they could salvage.
According to Ghana Web, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II expressed deep concern over the continued encroachment on natural drainage channels and green belts during his tour of some of the worst-affected communities. He believes this practice is worsening the annual flooding disaster in the capital. Addressing journalists, the Ga Mantse pointed fingers at some traditional authorities for enabling construction in environmentally sensitive areas. He emphasized that chiefs selling lands in flood-prone areas and green belts must be held accountable to prevent further disasters.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II warned that without strict action, flooding will continue to destroy lives and properties every rainy season. He urged government agencies, the Regional Minister, and the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to enforce the by-laws prohibiting construction in waterways. He acknowledged the human suffering caused by enforcement but insisted it is necessary to prevent loss of life.
The flooding issue has become critical following the opening of the Weija Dam spill gates due to heavy rains, affecting communities such as Tetegu, Oblogo, Choice, and parts of Weija. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has initiated evacuation exercises in the affected areas, advising residents to move to safer grounds as more rain is expected.