Residents in Tema witnessed a unique spectacle on Wednesday night.
The Greater Accra regional town spent the night holding a traditional ceremony for the late Paramount Chief of Tema.
It marked the beginning of funeral activities for the late Osonnaa Nii Adjei Kraku II by the Tema Traditional Council (TTC).
Prior to the event, townsfolk had been strongly advised to stay indoors due to the sensitive nature of the programme.
It was due to a scheduled blackout from 7 pm to 12 am in line with Ga customs as a sign of honour shown to deceased chiefs.
Just got to tema from Accra and the street of Tema is empty. It has turned into a ghost town.
Following the customary rights of the Tema Traditional council, there should be total darkness till midnight because the burial of the late chief is upon us. pic.twitter.com/6TvdaMcESy
— The Bearded Mc
(@Oscarnuwati) October 26, 2022
Even the Tema General Hospital asked staff on night shifts on Wednesday to report earlier than usual.
Earlier, staff-wielding traditionalists patrolled the streets with some carrying pots on their heads in mourning.
Later in the night, it was a surreal experience. Hundreds costumed in ceremonial accoutrements sang dirges amid carrying objects and candles as residents locked themselves indoors.
A Twitter user, @OfficialRhoni shared some of the scenes on social media.
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pic.twitter.com/jGcuoxHlDx
— #GhanaFirst
(@OfficialRhoni) October 26, 2022
Others also took to social media to express their admiration for the event.
Love what’s happening in Tema. Light out, tradition goes on pic.twitter.com/LSRuRcS7ru
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) October 26, 2022
Some weeks ago, the Tema Traditional Council (TTC) announced a ban on social activities within the Tema Traditional area for the month of October to honour Nii Adjei Kraku II.
VIDEO: Funeral rites for the late Tema Chief, Osonnaa Nii Adjei Kraku II begin. #AsaaseNews pic.twitter.com/NEksUu1Gjr
— Asaase 99.5 (@asaaseradio995) October 26, 2022
The Council has set October aside to eulogise the late Paramount Chief.
