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The Dorfor Youth and Development Association (DYDA), based in Juapong in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region, has strongly condemned a publication in the Current newspaper which claimed the resolution of a chieftaincy dispute in the Dorfor Traditional Area.
The publication, dated Thursday, June 19, 2025, and headlined “Dorfor Chieftaincy Dispute Resolved: Togbega Anati Kodey IV Declared Legitimate Paramount Chief”, was described by the DYDA as “unsubstantiated, misleading, and peace-threatening.”
In a press statement signed by its President, Mr. Nelson K. Hodogbey, and backed by the Association’s Executive Committee, the DYDA rejected the report, asserting that it misrepresented the legal and customary reality of the Dorfor Paramountcy dispute. The Association stated that the chieftaincy issue remains unresolved and is still pending before the Judicial Committee of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs and other relevant traditional and legal bodies.
Providing historical context, the DYDA emphasized that the Dorfor Paramountcy has been under contention for years, with multiple claimants and ongoing litigation. According to the Association, the customary process for installing a Paramount Chief involves not just a declaration by the House of Chiefs, but a rigorous traditional procedure—including proper selection, confinement, and outdooring—endorsed by all legitimate kingmakers and clans within the traditional area.
“As of today,” the statement said, “no such legitimate, inclusive enstoolment has taken place.” The group further claimed that no court has ruled in favor of Mr. Nelson Anati Duagbor (referred to in the article as Togbega Anati Kodey IV) as the rightful Paramount Chief of Dorfor.
Mr. Hodogbey stated that key stakeholders, including opposing royal families and community representatives, were not involved in any reconciliation or installation processes. He criticized the Current newspaper article for presenting a one-sided account that could mislead the public and disrupt the fragile peace in the area.
“The article falsely paints a picture of finality and celebration, which is neither accurate nor reflective of the current sentiment within Dorfor,” he said. “It lacks journalistic balance and fails to include opposing voices.”
The DYDA warned that the publication could undermine ongoing peace and mediation efforts, while also creating confusion and tension among the youth and local communities.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to unity and development in the Dorfor Traditional Area and called on the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, the National House of Chiefs, and other adjudicating bodies to fast-track the resolution process in an inclusive and lawful manner.
In conclusion, Mr. Hodogbey urged the media to act responsibly when reporting on chieftaincy matters, particularly those with potential to ignite division or unrest. He encouraged all youth groups to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and focused on community development, stressing that DYDA will continue to promote truth, dialogue, and inclusive leadership within the Dorfor Traditional Area.
By: Benjamin Makafui Attipoe