What was meant to be a joyful celebration of new life turned deadly on Friday, June 20, 2025, when gunfire erupted during a naming ceremony in Gbawe, a suburb of Accra.
The incident left one man dead and several others injured, causing panic among residents and mourners alike.
Initial reports suggest that the shooting may be linked to an existing feud between rival youth groups in ngthe area, a clash between two rival Asafoatse—traditional leaders or warriors—whose longstanding tensions exploded during the event. However, the police have not yet confirmed this.
The ceremony, which had drawn a large crowd of family, friends, and community members, was reportedly interrupted by a heated confrontation between two factions. Tensions escalated quickly, culminating in an exchange of gunfire.
Eyewitnesses reported that the ceremony, which had brought together family and community members, was proceeding peacefully until a heated argument broke out. The dispute quickly escalated, leading to gunfire that caused guests to scatter in panic.
Bullets hit two people—one died at the scene, while the other remains in critical condition and is receiving treatment at Legon Hospital.
Community leaders have expressed shock and sorrow over the incident, calling for greater security and unity in Gbawe.
The Ghana Police Service has since launched an investigation into the shooting incident at the naming ceremony in Gbawe.
