Accra: The family of the late Apostle Emeritus Professor Kwadwo Safo has called on law enforcement authorities to immediately re-arrest Israel Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena, and pursue attempted murder charges against him in connection with the shooting of former Gender Minister, Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo.
According to Ghana Web, the family expressed deep dissatisfaction with the handling of the case during a press conference held in Accra on Wednesday, June 25, 2026. They described the charges brought before the court as inadequate despite what they claim to be compelling evidence linking Akofena to the attack. The Adenta Circuit Court had previously granted bail to Akofena and eight others, a decision that has intensified outrage among family members.
The family's spokesperson, Dr. Emmanuel Boakye, stated that the court cannot be faulted, as it ruled based on the charges presented by prosecutors. However, he emphasized that the prosecution's failure to include attempted murder charges significantly influenced the court's decision. "We are not blaming the court because the court acted on what the prosecution brought before it. So, you will realise that none of the arrested guys who were wearing military uniforms were charged with attempted murder. So, we are urging all those involved in handling the matter to be proactive and ensure that Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo gets justice," he noted.
The family has urged authorities to act decisively to ensure justice for Adwoa Safo. Lawyers representing the family are reportedly preparing petitions to the Attorney General, the Chief Justice, and the Inspector-General of Police to review the case and escalate the charges.
Adwoa Safo continues to suffer from the consequences of the shooting, with her relatives reporting that she has never fully recovered from the traumatic ordeal. She undergoes a rigorous medical regime, including MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, neurological assessments, and other procedures aimed at monitoring and treating injuries sustained during the attack.
The family expressed deep concern over a video showing Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena dancing and celebrating after being granted bail, describing it as disturbing and insensitive given the severity of the incident and its lasting impact on the victim.
Beyond the legal battle, the incident has exposed growing tensions within the Kantanka family following the passing of their patriarch. Kwadwo Safo Jnr, the youngest son of the late Apostle, lamented that internal conflicts and public controversies are damaging the family's once-respected image. He noted that while association with the Safo name once brought pride, it is now met with suspicion, as people fear links to violence and instability.
"Our late father left a very good legacy for us as children to benefit from it. Before, we go out with our chest high and when you tell people that you are a child or relative of Apostle Kwadwo Safo, everybody would want to associate with you. However, today, the moment you introduce yourself as a child or relative of Apostle Kwadwo Safo, people would want to dissociate themselves from you for fear that you have a weapon on you," he stated. He expressed concern that continued internal strife within the family could further tarnish their father's legacy and affect future business prospects.