By Paul Mamattah
The Dzaasetse and custodian of the Asere Stool of the Ga State, NII Amarkai III, has denied claims by the Abeka Nii Boi family to ownership of Nii Boiman land.
He unequivocally stated that, the Abeka Nii Boi family was expelled from Nii Boiman and that the land belongs to the Asere Kotopong Stool, refuting previous claims by the Abeka Nii Boi family.
“Anybody from the Abeka family claiming any part of the Nii Boiman land is a lie; they are all settlers,” he said.
Speaking to landlords and property owners of the Nii Boiman Regularization Association in Accra, NII Amarkai III, noted that the Association acts as the liaison between the Lands Commission and the Asere Stool adding that the Association plays a crucial role in resolving disputes and ensuring proper land administration.
He emphasized that Asere, being synonymous with Accra, holds the unique position of being the original landowner saying; that before any settlers, including those who have purchased plots or portions of land, claim ownership, they must recognize the authority of the rightful landowners.
“Asere is Accra, and Accra is Asere, which means everywhere you go, you have the owners of the land before you have the settlers,”. He emphasized.
The issue of conflicting claims and alleged forgery regarding land ownership in Nii Boiman was also discussed. NII Amarkai III, acknowledged that such disputes exist, but he emphasized that the Ga Traditional Council is responsible for verifying claims.
“People who just bought one portion, two portions, like two plots, one plot of land. When you talk about property, you have people who are also claiming part of it, the forgery people, some claiming Nii Boiman is for them, others claiming part of it. Nii Boiman is for them too, but we have the Ga Traditional Council to verify from them.” Nii Amarkai III, stated.
Having held the stool for nearly 25 years, NII Amarkai III, acknowledged the enormity of his role and stressed the importance of addressing the question of land ownership. Clarifying the rightful owners of the land will bring clarity and stability to the community, ensuring sustainable development and prosperity.
Furthermore, he emphasized the responsibility of NII Ayi Mensah I, the Dzaasetse of Nii Boiman and the acting Nii Boiman Manste, in overseeing the welfare and development of the community. This affirmation ensures that the community remains united under a respected and capable leadership.
The clarification by NII Amarkai III settles an ongoing land dispute that threatened the community’s peace and development. By affirming the rightful ownership of the land, he aims to bring an end to the confusion and facilitate the progress of the Nii Boiman area.
The clarification by the Asere Kotopong Stool is expected to pave the way for development projects and investment opportunities in Nii Boiman. With the ownership issue resolved, investors and developers can now confidently invest in the area, knowing that their interests are protected.