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The Western Regional Minister, together with the Regional House of Chiefs, is moving to restore calm in Asemko, a community reduced to ruins after a violent chieftaincy conflict that led to the beheading of a resident and widespread destruction.
Tensions between Asemko and its sister community, Butre, have been simmering for years. Although both communities traditionally recognise Nana Agyeibu Tiah as their chief, a faction in Butre has been pushing for the installation of its own leader, heightening divisions.
The situation escalated violently last week when Nana Agyeibu Tiah was assaulted during a visit to Asemko.
Residents who managed to escape the attacks say they lost everything in the chaos. “We fled Asemko, not salvaging anything. We later heard that our community was set on fire. All our belongings have been burnt to ashes,” recounted Kobina Fosu, a resident. He described how the youth are now displaced and hungry after being forced to flee with nothing.
Asemko now stands almost empty, with homes burnt, schools shut down and families taking refuge in the bush. The silence in the community is broken only by the crackle of burnt debris.
The Western Regional Security Council, led by Minister Joseph Nelson, has visited the area to assess the damage and has directed security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the violence.
The Municipal Chief Executive of Ahanta West, Ebenezer Aidoo, says a register of displaced persons is being compiled to coordinate relief efforts. MP Mavis Kuukua Bissue has also called for peace and urged government and development partners to channel investment into rebuilding the community.
Security personnel have since been deployed to maintain order as residents await justice and urgent humanitarian relief. Asemko’s story stands as a grim reminder of how unresolved chieftaincy tensions can erupt into devastating violence.
The post Asemko deserted as chieftaincy clashes leave community in ruins appeared first on The Herald ghana.
