A landmark decision by the High Court in Accra has definitively settled the long-standing succession dispute within the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana, confirming Kwadwo Safo Akofena—the son of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka—as the rightful leader of the spiritual empire. The ruling, announced following the public reading of the late Apostle’s will on June 27, 2026, has effectively closed the chapter on a bitter family feud that threatened to fracture the church’s unity.
Legal Confirmation and Family Resolution
The court’s verdict, delivered after a thorough examination of the late Apostle’s will, has been met with a mix of relief and acceptance among family members. Osebo the Zaraman, a prominent figure in the Safo family, addressed reporters outside the courtroom, emphasizing the family’s commitment to honoring their father’s final wishes.
“After reading the will, it is clear that everything—both spiritual and material—has been bequeathed to Kwadwo Safo Akofena. While some of us initially had reservations, we now fully embrace this decision. Our father’s will is the ultimate authority, and we will stand behind Akofena in every capacity,” Osebo stated.
He further clarified that the family’s stance aligns with the late Apostle’s lifelong emphasis on peace and unity, a principle he consistently upheld during his lifetime. “If the will explicitly states that Akofena is the designated successor, then there is no room for opposition. Our father’s legacy must be preserved without division,” Osebo added.
The Succession Crisis and Legal Challenges
The path to this resolution was fraught with controversy. Earlier in June 2026, the Kristo Asafo Mission had formally introduced Akofena as the new leader through a congratulatory video and statement on its official platforms, marking a significant milestone in the church’s leadership transition. However, the announcement was met with immediate resistance from Sarah Adwoa Safo, the late Apostle’s elder sister and former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, who had long contested Akofena’s claim to the succession.
The dispute escalated when two senior church members—Kweku Agyenim Boateng (former Deputy General Secretary) and Seth Appiah Richard Brown—filed a lawsuit at the High Court in Accra**, challenging the legitimacy of Akofena’s appointment. The legal battle temporarily stalled the installation process, prompting the church to postpone the official transition until the court’s decision could be rendered.
Violence and Legal Consequences
Tensions reached a critical point on June 21, 2026, when Sarah Adwoa Safo sustained a gunshot injury during a confrontation at her younger brother’s residence. The incident led to the arrest of Kwadwo Safo Akofena and eight other individuals, who were later granted bail in the sum of GH¢500,000 each, with two sureties required. Their next court appearance is scheduled for September 30, 2026, as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The violence has cast a shadow over the family’s grieving period, particularly as preparations for the final burial rites of Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka proceed. Despite Adwoa Safo’s deteriorating health, Obed Kwadwo Safo, the youngest son of the late Apostle, confirmed that the burial dates (July 30–August 1, 2026) remain unchanged. “The plans are well advanced, and we are committed to ensuring our father receives a befitting and dignified farewell,” Obed stated, underscoring the family’s determination to move forward despite internal strife.
Church’s Official Recognition and Future Outlook
In a public announcement on June 21, 2026, the Kristo Asafo Mission formally recognized Akofena’s leadership, describing the transition as a “milestone” in the church’s history. The statement expressed prayers for “wisdom, strength, and divine guidance” as Akofena assumes his role, signaling the institution’s intent to move past the succession crisis and focus on spiritual growth.
The High Court’s ruling has effectively resolved the legal dispute, though the emotional and psychological scars of the conflict remain. Family members, including Adwoa Safo, have been urged to accept the court’s decision and prioritize reconciliation. The late Apostle’s legacy, built on faith, discipline, and unity, now rests in the hands of his chosen successor, with the broader Kristo Asafo community called upon to support Akofena in his leadership journey.
As the church prepares for its final burial rites and the official commencement of Akofena’s tenure, the focus shifts toward healing, renewal, and the continued propagation of Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka’s vision. The High Court’s verdict, while closing one chapter, opens another—one where the Kristo Asafo Mission can reclaim its spiritual purpose without the shadow of division.
