Accra: Spokesperson for the Kantanka family and Kristo Asafo Mission, Dr Emmanuel Boakye, has given a detailed account of events that led to the shooting incident involving former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, during events linked to the coronation of her brother, Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena, as the new leader of the Mission.
According to Ghana Web, the dispute stemmed from disagreements over leadership succession within the Mission, which is guided by a constitution. Some family members challenged the process and resorted to legal action. The situation escalated when attempts were made to serve court summons on Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena, but those involved reportedly struggled to locate him.
Dr Boakye explained that the Kristo Asafo Church has a constitution, and some siblings raised concerns about the installation of a new leader, so they took the matter to court to stop the installation ceremony. Adwoa and her siblings were looking for Akofena to serve him the summons, but he could not be located.
According to him, matters became more complicated when plans for the installation ceremony were altered and relocated to Akofena's residence, a move that triggered further communication among the siblings. Adwoa Safo, a lawyer by profession, became directly involved due to her understanding of the legal implications of the court process.
Dr Boakye narrated that Adwoa Safo was going to block the installation and went to inform her brother about the implications of the ceremony. She travelled from East Legon to the location but did not enter the main compound. Instead, she was stopped at the entrance by private security personnel, where it could be heard that some persons were saying 'Shoot her, shoot her.'
The situation escalated rapidly into chaos, with gunshots allegedly fired during the confrontation. Dr Boakye claimed that about 20 bullets were fired at her fender, and in all, about 48 bullets were fired at her, aiming to kill her. She was covered in blood and rushed to the hospital.
He said she was first rushed for emergency treatment before being transferred to the 37 Military Hospital for further medical care. She underwent scans, including an MRI, with her condition described as serious, including facial swelling and insomnia. Medical professionals have advised continued treatment, and discussions are ongoing regarding the possibility of sending her abroad for specialised care, pending medical clearance.
Meanwhile, nine individuals, including Akofena, have appeared before the Adentan Circuit Court over their alleged involvement in the incident. The court granted each accused person bail set at GHS500,000, and the case has been adjourned to September 23, 2026.