Dambai Circuit Court remands four for Akwantutenten Festival disturbances

The Dambai Circuit Court has remanded four individuals into police custody following violent disturbances in Dwabrem-Worawora, Oti Region. The suspects—Kwame Aboagye Ahenkroa, 55; Prince Asante, 27; Daniel Wiafe, 20; and Kwabena Nsimbo, 22—were allegedly involved in unrest during preparations for the Akwantutenten Festival on October 24, 2026. The incident is reportedly linked to an ongoing chieftaincy dispute that has created significant tension within the traditional area.

According to reports from the Ghana Police Service and court proceedings, the disturbances included the burning of vehicle tyres and other acts of violence aimed at disrupting traditional rites. The unrest was reportedly triggered by claims that a High Court injunction had been granted to restrain the celebration. Security forces intervened to restore order in the community, leading to the apprehension of the four men now facing charges related to the violence.

Speaking on the situation, DSP John Nchor of the Oti Regional Police emphasized the necessity of resolving grievances through established legal and constitutional channels. The Oti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has also called for calm among all factions, urging families involved in the chieftaincy disagreement to prioritize peace and seek redress through the courts rather than through public disorder.

The four accused individuals are scheduled to reappear before the court on November 17, 2026, as investigations continue. Security agencies remain on high alert in the Worawora area to prevent any further escalation of hostilities while the judicial process unfolds. The case highlights the persistent challenges local authorities face in managing traditional festivals where rival claims to authority can lead to localized instability.