Samuel Abua Jinapor (MP)
Samuel Abu Jinapor, the MP for Damango and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, is facing severe accusations from the Elders and Councillors of his birthplace. The youth of Gonjaland, where Jinapor holds the title of Prince, have levied seven serious charges against him, including gross disrespect and insubordination.
The accusations stem from his actions since the coronation of Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, the King of Gonjaland. The youth claim that Jinapor has prioritized his political affiliation over his traditional roots, undermining the authority of the Yagbonwura.
Here are the detailed accusations as listed by the youth of Gonjaland:
1. Undermining Traditional Authority
After the enskinment of Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, concerns arose about the gross misconduct of an officer at the Gonja Traditional Council/Savannah Regional House of Chiefs. The counsellors and elders at Jakpa Palace recommended the officer’s transfer, and a petition was sent to the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Cultural Affairs. However, an MP from Gonjaland, who is also a minister, allegedly dismissed the Yagbonwura’s petition when consulted by the Minister for Chieftaincy, resulting in no action taken against the officer, who continues to disrespect the King’s authority.
2. Inaction During the Wasipe Incident
Last year, when security forces invaded Wasipe, several youths were wrongly arrested, beaten, detained, and tried. The Yagbonwura sought assistance from politicians in government to resolve the issue but received no response. Jinapor, in particular, did not return calls from the Yagbonwura, leading to the death of a person from Daboya due to a heart attack during the crisis. Ironically, Jinapor later facilitated the quick release of individuals arrested for misconduct in Damongo.
3. Politicizing Traditional Events
Traditional gatherings have turned into political showcases under the current Yagbonwura. For instance, the outdooring of Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto after his enskinment was overshadowed by political party colors and unnecessary drama. The media coverage focused more on politics than on traditional matters, diminishing the events’ cultural significance.
4. Disruption of the Late Busunuwurche’s Funeral
The final funeral rites of the late Busunuwurche were disrupted by political antics. There were physical altercations during the reading of the Late Queen Mother for Busunu’s tribute, showcasing a blatant disrespect for the solemn occasion.
5. Disrespect During Yagbonwura’s Anniversary
On April 27, 2024, the Yagbonwura’s one-year anniversary coincided with the Gonjaland Youth Association’s 48th Congress and the Guan Congress meeting in Damongo. Jinapor, representing the government, disrupted the program, angering the sons and daughters of Gonjaland. This act was seen as gross disrespect and disregard for the authority of Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto.
6. Denial of Security Access
When King Jira Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I paid a courtesy call on President Akufo-Addo in Accra, his security aide was denied access to the Presidency on orders allegedly given by Jinapor. This act of denying the King his security aide in front of other chiefs was seen as a deliberate insult.
7. Interference in Legal Processes
Recently, three individuals were arrested in Damongo for destroying pillars used to demarcate lands. While the police were processing them for court, a higher authority ordered their release. Upon their release, the suspects praised Jinapor for facilitating their freedom and chanted derogatory remarks against the King. This incident highlighted Jinapor’s selective use of power, questioning why he didn’t act similarly during the Wasipe incident.
The youth of Gonjaland are calling for accountability and respect from Jinapor towards their traditional authorities, urging him to prioritize his cultural roots over political affiliations. The allegations paint a picture of a leader who has consistently undermined his heritage and disrespected his kinsmen, sparking outrage and disappointment among the people of Gonjaland.
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