In the past few hours, there has been a significant buzz on social media regarding the news of a Ga priest named Gborbu Wulomo marrying a 12-year-old girl to uphold a long-standing tradition.
While many Ghanaians have demanded his arrest, the reactions to this story have been diverse. Gborbu Wulomo, however, has stepped forward to defend himself against these accusations.
According to him, those who are calling for his arrest are simply ignorant and lack understanding of their customs.
The Gborbu Wulomo temple has stated that Naa Yomo Ayemuade, the 12-year-old girl in question, has been chosen to serve one of the 99 deities of the Ga-Adangbe group, and she must be a virgin.
Due to this requirement, the decision was made to publicly conduct the marriage ceremony to ensure her purity and protect her from any form of sexual violation.
Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II, a spokesperson for the temple, further explained that the selection of Naa Yomo Ayemuade by Gborbu Wulomo is a spiritual practice that began six years ago.
She is expected to fulfil a specific role within the shrine, a role that has traditionally been reserved only for virgins. According to him, the critics who have expressed their disapproval of this situation fail to grasp the fundamental principles of the Ga-Dangbe tradition.
In a press conference, Nii Bortey Kofi Frankwa II said:
When somebody makes such a call it comes from a point of ignorance. Because first, you need to come closer and ask so that you will appreciate what it is but not take hook line, and sinker what is being said. Because it goes beyond what is being preached out there. It is deeper than what is being preached. It is deeper for our spirituality.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Sempe and Mankralo of the Ga State, Nii Adotey Otintor II condemned the marriage by the priest.
Speaking to JoyNews, the traditional leader called on the youth of the area to resist this development as it will dent the reputation of the townsfolk.
The Chieftaincy Ministry also says it is probing the circumstances surrounding the controversial customary marriage.
