The Ga Mashie Traditional Council has issued summons to 15 churches, including Calvary Baptist Church and Lighthouse Chapel, following allegations of breaching the noise-making ban that was enacted on May 12.
Asafoatse Mankatta, the leader of the task force overseeing compliance with the one-month directive, confirmed the summons during an interview.
He pointed out that the churches were clapping during their services, which directly contradicts the council’s orders. Notably, some churches even refused to accept the summons letters handed to them.
“We have great respect for Calvary Baptist Church, but we were surprised to see them violating the orders of the Traditional Council; they were making noise as if there was nothing at stake,” he said.
The leadership of the default churches are expected to appear before the Council on Thursday, May 22; Mr. Mankatta warned that failing to comply could result in serious consequences.
He reiterated the rules that churches are not allowed to clap or drum during the ban, although singing is permitted.
He also mentioned that churches with soundproof facilities that ensure no noise escapes will not be penalised.
Mr. Mankatta urged the Christian community to adhere to the directives, emphasising that the task force will amplify enforcement efforts beginning next Sunday.
The ban is part of the customary practices leading up to the celebration of the Homowo Festival.
The month-long program is expected to end on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
