In a decisive move, the Ga-Dangme Lands Administration (GDLA) has declared a state of emergency to address escalating land disputes in the Greater Accra Region. The GDLA has called on the Lands Commission to immediately halt the registration of all disputed lands, citing concerns over ownership rights and transparency in land allocation.
This action follows months of mounting tensions between traditional landowners, private developers, and government agencies regarding prime lands in high-demand areas like East Legon, Spintex, Osu, and Ngleshie Alata. “The situation has reached a boiling point,” said King Dr. Ayi Tunnmaa II, President of the Ga-Dangme Lands Administration. “The Lands Commission must take immediate action to protect the rights of our people.”
The state of emergency affects all lands currently under dispute in the Greater Accra Region and is expected to remain in effect until all outstanding disputes are resolved. The GDLA has emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in land allocation and urged the Lands Commission to respect the directives from Ga-Dangme traditional leaders.
The GDLA has been actively conducting feasibility studies to protect and manage Ga-Dangme lands, aiming to create a legally empowered Ga-Dangme Kingdom. The Administration envisions a united Ga-Dangme people, with Traditional Authorities, Kings, Chiefs, Queens, and family heads working together to uphold justice and sustainable development.
Objectives of the GDLA
The GDLA’s goals focus on justice, unity, and sustainable development within the Ga-Dangme Kingdom:
- Unity and Justice: Unite Traditional Authorities, Chiefs, and family heads to ensure fairness and equal access to justice on Ga-Dangme lands.
- Policy Development: Develop policies for lawful land acquisition, ensuring land rights are preserved and protected by rightful allodial owners.
- Recovery of Lands: Address illegal acquisitions and return divested lands to rightful owners by 2025.
- Elimination of Corruption: Eradicate corruption and misuse of authority among Chiefs and Family Heads within the Ga-Dangme Kingdom.
- Collaboration with Security Agencies: Work with security agencies to eliminate land guard activities by 2025.
- Protection of Rights and Access to Information: Safeguard the freedoms and rights of Ga-Dangme peoples as per national and international standards.
King Ayi Tunnmaa II has called on all Ga-Dangme citizens and supporters of the Kingdom to join forces in achieving the GDLA’s vision for a just and sustainable future for Ga-Dangme lands.
Source: Soireenews