By Patrick Ofoe Nudzi, GNA
Accra, May 4, GNA – The Coalition of La Associations (COLA) has appealed to the people of Osu to join forces with the indigenes of La in engaging government over disputed lands at Kaajaanor.
In a press statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, and signed by Nii Edmond Aryee, Deputy Secretary, COLA, the Coalition explained that the land in question lay within the legally recognised boundary between La and Osu, marked by the midpoint between the Obenesu and Klottey streams.
The statement said the Coalition was ready to cooperate with Osu for stronger and more effective negotiations with the government.
It noted that all lands in South La, including areas extending to the demolished fisheries structure, remained the property of the people of La, and stressed that portions ceded to the State for public use should revert to the original allodial owners.
The Coalition urged developers and other interested parties to refrain from activities on the land until lawful engagements and arrangements had been concluded among La, Osu and government.
It recalled that the land formed part of the “Coconut Plantation” during the colonial era, with acquisition processes dating back to 1897, when ownership was contested between the people of Labadi (La) and Christiansborg (Osu).
The statement explained that the dispute was settled in 1902 by a judgment delivered by Mr. William Brandford Griffiths, then Chief Justice of the Gold Coast, who declared the land “no man’s land” and established the midpoint between the Obenesu and Klottey streams as the boundary.
The Coalition emphasised that the boundary had since been recognised and respected by both communities until recent developments and called for dialogue to ensure peaceful resolution in the mutual interest of La, Osu and the State.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Patrick Ofoe Nudzi
[email protected]