The family of the late Apostle Emeritus Prof. Ing. Kwadwo Safo has intensified calls for justice in the shooting of former Gender Minister, Sarah Adwoa Safo, urging the Ghana Police Service to re-arrest Israel Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena, and prosecute him for attempted murder.
At a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, relatives of the former minister accused investigators of downplaying the seriousness of the case by failing to include attempted murder among the charges brought before the court.
Their demand follows a decision by the Adenta Circuit Court to grant Akofena and eight other accused persons bail of GH¢500,000 each with two sureties, a development that has sparked anger within sections of the family.
Family Spokesperson, Dr. Emmanuel Boakye, maintained that the court should not be blamed for the bail ruling, arguing that the judge could only act on the charges presented by prosecutors.
According to him, the absence of an attempted murder charge significantly weakened the prosecution’s case and failed to reflect the severity of the alleged attack on the former lawmaker.
“The court worked with the charges before it. Our concern is that despite the circumstances surrounding the shooting, no one has been charged with attempted murder. We believe the victim deserves justice and we are urging the relevant authorities to revisit the matter,” he said.
The family disclosed that legal steps are already underway to challenge the handling of the case, with petitions expected to be submitted to the Attorney-General, the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief Justice.
Relatives insist that Adwoa Safo continues to endure the consequences of the shooting, days after the incident occurred.
They revealed that she remains under medical observation and routinely undergoes a series of specialised examinations, including MRI and CT scans, to monitor injuries allegedly sustained during the attack.
The family also criticised Akofena’s conduct after his release on bail, citing a viral video that appeared to show him celebrating.
To them, the footage was painful and disrespectful, especially considering the lasting trauma they say the former minister continues to endure.
Family Feud Deepens
Beyond the courtroom battle, the controversy has exposed deepening divisions within the influential Kantanka family, following the death of its patriarch.
Kwadwo Safo Jnr., the youngest son of the late founder of Kristo Asafo Mission, warned that the ongoing disputes risk tarnishing a legacy built over decades.
He lamented that a name once associated with innovation, discipline and national pride is increasingly being linked to conflict and public controversy.
According to him, the deterioration of the family’s public image could have long-term consequences for the businesses, institutions and investments established by their father.
“Our father built a legacy that commanded respect. Today, that reputation is under threat because of the conflicts among us. If we do not resolve our differences, future generations will pay the price,” he cautioned.
Family members claim the shooting occurred during efforts to foster reconciliation ahead of Apostle Kwadwo Safo’s burial.
They said Adwoa Safo had sought to bring her siblings together, in pursuit of peace and unity, while discussions on leadership and succession within the family and church continued.
Adding his voice to the matter, fashion entrepreneur, Richard “Osebo” Brown, called on leaders of the Kristo Asafo Mission to uphold the principles of justice, peace and unity championed by the late Apostle.
He urged all parties to allow due process to take its course while working towards reconciliation in the interest of preserving the legacy of the renowned inventor and religious leader.
By Stephen Larbi
