Ghana, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and peaceful nature, has a dark underbelly that threatens the very fabric of its society. Land guards, a phenomenon that has been perpetuated for decades, have become a significant obstacle to peaceful living, development, and investment in the country.
These vigilante groups, often employed by landowners and developers, have become notorious for their brutal tactics, including murder, intimidation, and destruction of property. This article delves into the world of land guards, exploring their history, motivations, and impact on Ghanaian society, using Amasaman as a case study
The origins of land guards can be traced back to the colonial era when British colonial powers imposed their own system of land ownership on Ghana. This led to conflicts over land rights, as traditional leaders and families struggled to maintain control over their ancestral lands. In the post-colonial era, the situation worsened, with the government failing to address the land question, leading to a rise in land disputes and vigilantism
Land guards operate in a highly organized and structured manner, often with the tacit approval of their employers. They are usually armed and trained to use violence to achieve their objectives. Their modus operandi includes Intimidation and harassment of rival claimants or developers, detractions of property and crops and physical assault and murder.
Amasaman, a suburb of Accra, has become a hotspot for land guard activities. The area’s rapid development and proximity to the capital city have made it a prime target for land speculators and developers, leading to numerous conflicts over land ownership and control. Land guards in Amasaman have been known to use violent tactics to chase away rival claimants and developers, leading to several deaths and injuries.
Unfortunately, some traditional chiefs have also been implicated in land guard activities. In some cases, chiefs have been known to employ land guards to protect their interests in land disputes or to settle scores with rival chiefs or families. This has led to a perpetuation of the cycle of violence, as land guards feel emboldened by the tacit approval of traditional authority figures.
According to Salike, the Sun Chief of Gonja in the Doblo Gonno Amasaman district, “It’s not just chiefs who sell land, but also family members who engage in this practice without seeking the necessary approval from the chief, leading to most of the conflicts that arise.”
The motivations behind the land guard phenomenon are complex and multifaceted, which include Economic interests: Land is a valuable resource, and the desire to control it drives the actions of land guards, Cultural and traditional beliefs: The importance of land in Ghanaian culture and tradition fuels the passion and zeal with which land guards pursue their objectives.
The effects of land guards on Ghanaian society are far-reaching and devastating:
Insecurity and fear: Land guards create a climate of fear, making it difficult for people to invest in land or development projects.
Loss of life and property: The violence perpetrated by land guards has resulted in numerous deaths and destruction of property.
Underdevelopment: The lack of investment in land and development projects hinders economic growth and development.
In Amasaman, the land guard menace has led to a significant decline in investment and development, as many are too afraid to venture into the area. The few who have attempted to develop their lands have been met with violence and intimidation, leading to a stalemate in the development of the area.
In conclusion, land guard menace is a significant obstacle to peace and development in Ghana. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that involves government, traditional leaders, and civil society. By understanding the history, motivations, and impact of land guards, we can work towards a solution that promotes peace, security, and development in Ghana. The government must take concrete steps to address the land question, provide alternative livelihoods for land guards, and prosecute those who engage in violent activities. Traditional leaders must also play a key role in resolving land disputes and promoting peaceful coexistence. Only then can we hope to build a society that values peace, security, and development for all.
Diana Yaa Opokua
Unimac-IJ
Email: dianayaaopokua@gmail.com
