Togbe Atsuga Sogah II, Dufiaga of Sogakope and Divisional Chief of the Fievie Traditional Area, has called on the Government to urgently address persistent flooding in Sogakope and surrounding communities, warning that continued delays could result in a major disaster.
He also accused the South Tongu District Assembly of failing to adequately tackle drainage challenges and of excluding traditional authorities from key development decisions affecting the area.
The appeal follows heavy rainfall on June 29, which flooded several homes, displaced families and destroyed property in parts of Sogakope, disrupting livelihoods.
In a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, Togbe Atsuga Sogah expressed sympathy to residents affected by the floods and assured them of the support of traditional authorities during the difficult period.
He said the recurring floods had reached alarming levels and required immediate intervention to prevent further destruction of lives and property.
“The situation demands immediate action. We cannot wait until the floods claim lives before decisive measures are taken,” the statement said.
Togbe Atsuga Sogah attributed the recurring floods mainly to inadequate drainage infrastructure and urged the Government to release funds for the construction of larger drains and additional gutters in Sogakope and nearby communities.
He noted that investment in effective drainage systems would help minimise the impact of future floods and protect lives and property.
The traditional ruler further called for transparency and accountability in the utilisation of public funds allocated for development projects in the district.
He urged the Government to ensure that traditional authorities were adequately informed and involved in decisions regarding infrastructure development funds released to the District Assembly.
According to him, such collaboration would enable traditional leaders to monitor projects and promote accountability among duty bearers.
Togbe Atsuga Sogah also expressed concern over what he described as the Assembly’s limited engagement with traditional authorities under the current administration.
He alleged that, unlike previous administrations, chiefs were no longer adequately consulted on major development issues despite their contributions to local development, including the release of land for public institutions.
He said traditional authorities were preparing to hold a press conference to outline their concerns over what they described as the Assembly’s disregard for the institution of chieftaincy.
The chief appealed to government agencies, the District Assembly and residents to work together to address the flooding challenge.
He said while traditional authorities would continue to provide leadership, citizens must also demand accountability to ensure the effective use of public resources for community development.
GNA
