The Ashanti Regional Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is investigating a land dispute involving agents of an alleged fraudulent landowner, identified as Pastor Akwasi Addae Macaiah of the 7th Day Pentecostal Assemblies in Kumasi-Adiebeba. The agents were arrested for attempting to unlawfully demarcate land at Buoho-Afrancho.
On February 11, 2025, Emmanuel Kwame Alhassan, also known as Kwame Dada (church secretary), and Akwasi Alhassan Kankani (church member) were apprehended while allegedly erecting block poles to illegally claim ownership of the land. Two other individuals—Bernard Ofori Amanfo (church elder) and Mr. Poku (church member and a mechanic at Suame Magazine)—escaped arrest.
The land in question was originally acquired in the 1980s by the late Elder Enoch Ofori Snr, founder of the 7th Day Pentecostal Assemblies, from Mr. Akomia (now deceased) for a school project. However, no formal legal documentation was completed, and the agreement was based solely on mutual trust.
Following Elder Ofori Snr’s death, ownership of the land legally remained with Mr. Akomia, who, according to reports, transferred it through a will to his younger brother, Mr. Akomia Jnr, also known as Atta. While church members continued to maintain the now-defunct school project, Atta permitted them to remain on the land.
The dispute escalated when Pastor Akwasi Addae Macaiah, who allegedly assumed leadership of the church after Elder Ofori Snr’s passing, claimed ownership of the land. He insisted that the late Elder Ofori Snr had transferred the property to him before his death, despite lacking documented proof. Sources allege that Pastor Macaiah has been renting out sections of the land for personal gain and has housed one of his wives on the property.
Additionally, he is accused of attempting to evict Elder Ofori Snr’s former driver through court action. However, the Kodie Circuit Court has repeatedly demanded proof of ownership, which Pastor Macaiah has reportedly failed to provide.
The February 11 arrests were prompted by a tip-off to Mr. Akomia Jnr (Atta) that Pastor Macaiah had instructed his church members to stake claim to the land by marking boundaries with block poles.
A hearing was scheduled for February 18 at the Kumasi CID office, where both Mr. Akomia Jnr (Atta) and Pastor Macaiah were expected to present documentation proving land ownership. However, the CID officer in charge was unavailable due to another assignment, leading to an adjournment of the case. Mr. Akomia Jnr (Atta) has stated that he is awaiting Pastor Macaiah’s proof of ownership before taking further legal steps.
Church Leadership Controversy
This incident has drawn attention to Pastor Macaiah’s controversial leadership of the 7th Day Pentecostal Assemblies since the passing of Elder Enoch Ofori Snr. He is accused of violating the church’s constitution by unilaterally assuming the role of President.
Further allegations against Pastor Macaiah include polygamy and adultery. Last year, he was reportedly summoned before the Manhyia Palace by a church member, Kofi Adjei, for allegedly having an affair with Adjei’s wife. The palace found him guilty and ordered him to pay GHC 25,000 in compensation to Adjei, as well as issue a formal apology.
Additionally, Manhyia Palace instructed Pastor Macaiah to publicly apologize to other church members he had falsely accused during his radio broadcasts.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigations into both the land dispute and the allegations against Pastor Akwasi Addae Macaiah are ongoing. Further updates will be provided as the case develops.
