The Spiritual Science Society Africa has stated that it will not pay an additional pacification fee of GH¢38,500 to the traditional leaders of Nkotompo in the Western Region, arguing that the demand is unreasonable and unjustified.
The request followed a viral video showing members of the society performing rituals that residents described as such in the Nkotompo River.
The footage sparked outrage among locals, with many alleging that the group was engaged in occult practices.
Tensions heightened as a crowd gathered at the spot, demanding explanations from the society.
The situation escalated when residents insisted that the group be taken to the Nkotompo Palace for questioning.
Subsequently, the community’s leadership demanded a payment of an extra GH¢38,000 as a form of pacification apart from an earlier payment of an amount of GH¢600 together with some other items.
However, the society has firmly rejected the demand, arguing that it lacks merit.
In a press statement released on August 27, 2025, and signed by the society’s Director General, Lord Ackham Rebakham, the group noted, “We have taken a firm stance against them, as we do not find these demands reasonable, credible, or justified.
Hence, we are waiting for the full investigation findings or reports by the police for any further action(s).”
The Spiritual Science Society Africa explained in its statement that their members had visited St Mary’s Boys’ Senior High School in Apowa, a suburb of Takoradi, to mourn a departed colleague.
Following the event, they proceeded to the Nkotompo seaside to perform pre-burial rites.
The statement noted that symbolic items-including water, oils, incense, candles, rings, and other regalia belonging to the deceased-were ceremonially offered to the sea as part of the rites.
However, the society acknowledged that prior permission was not sought from the traditional authorities before performing their rites, leading to the misunderstanding.
Some residents misinterpreted the ritual as “sakawa”, a ritual performed by persons to acquire wealth.
The police later intervened to prevent unrest and obtained statements from members of the group, who were subsequently charged with alleged unlawful disposal of refuse into the sea.
According to the society, it was granted bail and has since cooperated fully with the ongoing investigation.
The statement further noted that the group initially honoured a request from the traditional leaders by offering two bottles of schnapps and a sum of GH¢600.00 for pacification rites.
However, the society has firmly resisted a subsequent demand of GH¢38,500.00, expressing concern that such a request casts doubt on the true intentions of the traditional leaders.
“We strongly condemn the spread of falsehood and misleading reports that seek to tarnish the image of our society. We abhor any illegal activity and remain committed to upholding the laws of Ghana while exercising our right to association and worship,” Lord Rebakham further cautioned.
Read the statement below:
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