Sefwi Basengele Chief Threatens Sanctions Against Landowners
The Chief of Sefwi Basengele in the Anhwiaso Traditional Area of the Western North Region, Nana Atoware, has threatened sanctions against landowners who fail to develop their plots, warning that abandoned lands have become havens for criminals and other miscreants.
The chief, who also serves as the administrative head of customary stool lands in Bibiani, said the increasing number of undeveloped plots had become a major concern because the areas were being taken over by bushes and allegedly used as hideouts by criminals.
He issued the warning during a programme on Okyeame Radio, a local radio station in Bibiani, on Saturday, urging all plot owners in the municipality to develop their lands without further delay.
According to Nana Atoware, the overgrown plots have become breeding grounds for dangerous animals, including snakes, scorpions and rodents, thereby posing potential threats to residents.
He further expressed concern that some of the abandoned properties had been converted into ghettos and hideouts for thieves, drug users and other suspected criminals.
“Rapists, criminals and other wicked people use such places for their operations,” he lamented.
The chief warned that landowners who failed to heed the directive would face serious sanctions, stressing that offenders would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Drug Abuse
Nana Atoware also raised the alarm over substance abuse among the youth, describing the practice as a threat to their personal development and future prospects.
He cautioned that drug abuse had serious medical, social and psychological consequences, urging young people to stay away from substances that could jeopardise their lives.
The chief specifically warned pragya riders against substance abuse, noting that the practice could impair their judgement, increase the risk of road accidents and expose them and other road users to danger.
He urged the youth to remain focused and prepare themselves to assume leadership positions in their communities and the country.
“You are our future leaders. Chiefs, headmasters, MPs, Chief Executives, Reverend Ministers and other prominent personalities will be selected from among you. Position yourselves for the numerous opportunities ahead,” Nana Atoware advised.
Land Documents
The chief also urged prospective landowners to follow the appropriate procedures in acquiring land and securing the necessary documents to avoid disputes and costly litigation.
He stressed the importance of proper documentation, advising landowners to ensure that their transactions complied with the relevant requirements.
