The Gborbu Wulomo shrine in Nungua is facing criticism after its 63-year-old priest married a minor.
The controversy arose from a ceremony held on March 20, leading to calls for the priest, Nuumo Borketey Laweh Tsuru XXXIII, to be arrested.
The shrine has defended the marriage, stating that the girl, Naa Yomo Ayemuade, was chosen to attend to one of the 99 deities of the Ga-Adangbe group, which requires her to be a virgin. To ensure her purity and protect her from potential sexual violations, the decision was made to conduct a public marriage ceremony.
A spokesperson for the shrine, Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II, explained that the selection of 12-year-old Naa Yomo Ayemuade was part of a spiritual practice that began six years ago. She is expected to fulfill a role traditionally reserved for virgins within the shrine.
The spokesperson emphasized that critics of the marriage do not understand the traditions of the Ga Dangbe people.
“When somebody makes such a call it comes from a point of ignorance. Because first, you need to come closer and ask so that you will appreciate what it is but not take hook line, and sinker what is being said,” he said at a press conference.
“Because it goes beyond what is being preached out there. It is deeper than what is being preached. It is deeper for our spirituality,” he told Accra-based GHOne.
In contrast, the Chief of Sempe and Mankralo of the Ga State, Nii Adotey Otintor II, has strongly condemned the marriage conducted by the priest.
In an interview with JoyNews, the traditional leader urged the youth of the area to reject this practice, warning that it could tarnish the reputation of the community.
Additionally, the Chieftaincy Ministry has announced that it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the controversial marriage.