A group of armed men in military uniform, claiming to be acting on orders from the Flagstaff House, on Friday, April 25, invaded Boi Town—a well-developed residential community situated between Abokobi and Old Ashongman in the Greater Accra Region—with the intent to demolish privately owned homes.

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When alarmed residents confronted the armed men, they were met with threats, including warnings that anyone who attempted to film the operation would be shot.

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In response to the invasion on Friday, residents quickly contacted the Adenta Police. Upon arrival, the police attempted to arrest the group, but the soldiers fled the scene with the aid of heavy bulldozers they had brought along.

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The group was reportedly led by members of the Graham family, who currently hold a Supreme Court judgment in their favor over ownership of the land.

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The Grahams had previously lost a High Court case to the Adutso family, who then sold plots of the land to private individuals. However, the Grahams later appealed the ruling and won at both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

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They are now demanding a one-time payment of GHC 300,000 per plot, or GHC 400,000 if paid within a year, from current residents.

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Despite numerous attempts by residents to negotiate a reduction in the demanded payment, the Grahams have refused and issued repeated threats to demolish the homes. Meanwhile, a third family—the Akoblems—who also possess a High Court judgment over the same land, are likewise demanding payment from residents.

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This has left the community of Boi Town in a state of shock and confusion, as they find themselves caught between conflicting legal claims. A Supreme Court case between the Grahams and the Akoblems is currently pending to resolve the dispute over rightful ownership of the land.

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Residents have vowed to resist any further attempts at demolition until a final ruling is made.

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Boi Town comprises over 500 houses and is approximately 80% occupied by residents, including civil servants, security personnel, lecturers, retirees, and other professionals.

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