A violent chieftaincy dispute at Agona Abodom in the Agona West Municipality of Ghana’s Central Region has left four people dead and ten others critically injured after a group of suspected landguards clashed with residents during the town’s Akwanbo Festival.

The clash erupted when an opposing claimant to the Abodom stool allegedly mobilised landguards to disrupt the celebration, sparking chaos that led to fatalities and extensive property damage. Two vehicles were set ablaze, and fixtures at the chief’s palace, including tables and chairs, were vandalised.

According to eyewitnesses, the deceased believed to be part of the attacking group were killed during the confrontation. Police intervention prevented further bloodshed, rescuing several of the suspected landguards from being lynched by angry residents. Others reportedly fled the scene.

The bodies of the deceased have been transported to a nearby morgue, while the injured are receiving treatment at various health facilities.

Agona Abodom has been plagued by a 45-year-old chieftaincy dispute, which had seen relative calm following the installation of a new chief earlier this year. However, tensions reignited during the festival, culminating in the latest violent incident.

Local residents are now living in fear and have appealed to authorities for heightened security. Assemblyman Alex Donkor has called for immediate military and police reinforcements, warning that the situation could escalate further if not addressed swiftly.

Police have begun investigations into the incident, with assurances of maintaining order in the community.