The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for the arrest and prosecution of chiefs allegedly involved in allocating and selling lands on waterways, wetlands and other flood-prone areas in parts of Accra.
He made the call during a visit to communities affected by recent flooding triggered by the spillage of the Weija Dam, which left several residents displaced and submerged homes, shops and other property in low-lying areas.
Touring the affected communities on Thursday, May 28, the Ga Mantse expressed concern over what he described as the continued encroachment on waterways and green belts, warning that the practice remains a major driver of recurrent flooding in the capital.
Speaking to journalists during the visit, he accused some traditional authorities of enabling developments in areas meant to serve as natural drainage channels and protected environmental zones.
“Chiefs who are selling lands in flood-prone areas and places that are supposed to remain green areas must be held accountable,” he said.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II stressed that without strict enforcement of planning regulations, Accra would continue to suffer repeated flooding disasters during heavy rains, with growing risks to lives and property.
He therefore urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), regional authorities and other state agencies to enforce planning and environmental laws without fear or favour.
“We believe that everything is on course. What we are asking is that government agencies, the Regional Minister, and the MMDAs enforce the by-laws. Nobody should be allowed to build in waterways. If it is wrong, it is wrong, and we have to deal with it,” he said.
While acknowledging that demolition exercises may cause hardship for affected residents and property owners, the Ga Mantse maintained that such measures were necessary to prevent future loss of life and property.
“Demolitions are painful, and I sympathise with those affected, but we will have to enforce the laws because these situations continue to cause loss of life,” he added.
The flooding followed the controlled spillage of the Weija Dam by Ghana Water Limited after rising water levels due to heavy rainfall. Communities such as Tetegu, Oblogo, Choice and parts of Weija have since been affected, forcing some residents to evacuate their homes.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has begun evacuation efforts in some areas, while emergency teams continue to monitor the situation.
Authorities have also advised residents living near waterways and flood-prone zones to relocate temporarily as heavy rains are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
Urban planners and environmental experts have long warned that unchecked development on wetlands and waterways is worsening Accra’s flooding challenges.
The Ga Mantse’s remarks add to growing calls for stronger enforcement and accountability in addressing the city’s recurring flood crisis.