The Asomdwoe Baptist Church at Abuakwa-Asenemaso in the Atwima Nwabiagya South district is fighting back against claims that it’s refusing to relocate to make way for the Abuakwa stretch of the Sofoline-Tabre dual carriage road project.
There has been a lot of backlash from the community, and on social media, “MEY3 ASANTE NI” Facebook page, with people saying the church is being stubborn despite receiving a hefty compensation package.
But the church says it hasn’t received any compensation from the government yet
Rev. Samuel Owusu Appiah, the Head Pastor, made this clear at a press conference on September 25, 2024.
“It’s interesting to note that this situation highlights the complex relationship between churches, communities, and government projects. As Christians, we’re called to be good stewards of God’s resources and to prioritize the well-being of others ¹. But what does that look like in situations like this?
“It is never true that compensation has been paid and the church has refused to move to pave way for the road construction to continue. The church has not received any payment as compensation from the government or its representatives.” The Pastor said.
He continued that, the church has tried to accept the government’s modest compensation offer, but so far, all efforts have been unsuccessful.
“We have pursued this matter to avoid delays in the construction of the road where we are concerned. The church sent a delegation comprising the Honourable Assembly member for Asenemaso and his unit committee members, opinion leaders from the community, and some church leaders to the Department of Urban Roads. This fact-finding mission has established that no compensation has been paid to the church yet.”
Rev. Samuel Owusu Appiah stated that, until the church receives its compensation, the building can not be demolished. For this reason, the President, Akufo-Addo and the Sector minister through the regional minister should “expedite payment of compensation due the church so the church can relocate and the road construction works will not stall.”
“We also wish to assure the travelling public and the community (Abuakwa) that we as a Church are good citizens of the state and are ever ready to relocate from our present site as soon as official compensation is released and received by the Church Leadership.” He added.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com / Joseph Marfo
