The Ga Traditional Council has issued a stern warning, indicating it will enforce stricter sanctions for violations of the noise-making ban as it prepares for this year’s traditional ban. The Council reiterated its commitment to upholding its revered practice as the customary ban on noise-making approaches annually.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, April 3, Ayikoi Otoo, the President of the Ga-Dangbe Traditional Council, disclosed that the ban is set to commence from Monday, May 6, to Thursday, June 6. He underscored that during this month-long period, all forms of noise-making are prohibited.
Otoo stated, “The ban encompasses all forms of noise-making, including the use of loudspeakers, drums, tambourines, clapping of hands, and any other musical instruments within the Ga state. During this period, there should be no merry-making or holding of funerals.”
Nuumo Naaye, the Chief priest of the Ga Traditional Council, emphasized that the use of any sound projectors or machines that project sound is prohibited, stating, “You can’t clap your hands or whistle, and you don’t do anything that will make excessive noise.” Offenders will receive an inventory of seized items and a 90-day ultimatum to rectify their actions. Failure to comply within the stipulated period will result in the permanent forfeiture of confiscated belongings.
“A defaulter whose items are seized – the items will be brought to the Ga Traditional Council, and you will be given a copy of an inventory of all things which belong to your organization, individual, or whatsoever, and then your items will be brought to the Council,” emphasized Naaye. “You have a period of 90 days to approach the leaders of the Ga Traditional Council as to the fine and other punishment relating to your default during that period.”
Naaye urged churches, mosques, and all individuals to honor the ban and uphold the sanctity of Ga tradition. Lawyer Otu stressed the importance of respecting the ban, urging individuals to refrain from remarks that could incite unrest and disrupt the peace.
He mentioned that a task force has been established to collaborate with the Ghana Police Service to monitor and ensure compliance with the ban and prosecute individuals who fail to comply with the law.
“The Ga Traditional Council urges all presidents of the Ga state to honor the month-long ban on drumming and noise-making and refrain from spouting remarks regarding the customs practice and beliefs of the Ga people, which are likely to lead to breaches of the peace.”
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