Opambour And Old Solider
A tense land dispute has erupted in Ahenema Kokoben, a community in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi, between retired military man Reuben Solomon Jabari and renowned religious leader Reverend Ebenezer Adarkwa Yiadom, popularly known as “Prophet One” or “Opambour.”
The conflict, which has escalated publicly in recent weeks, centers around ownership of two plots of land located near Opambour’s church, the Ebenezer Miracle Worship Center.
Jabari, a former soldier with 15 years in military service, now a businessman, mining consultant, contractor, and local chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the area, has issued what he calls a “final warning” to Reverend Opambour.
He insists that the two plots—numbered 14 and 15—are legally his and that he possesses all the required documentation to back his ownership claim.
Speaking in a radio interview on Lawson Radio last Friday, Jabari accused the prophet of attempting to encroach on his legally acquired land.
He asserted his readiness to defend the property, stating that he would go to any lengths—including physical confrontation if necessary—to protect what he describes as his rightful property.
“I will never run away from whoever he brings. I am fully armed and I will protect my property. I will not tolerate anyone who crosses me on this land,” he declared on air.
He also responded to alleged spiritual threats from the religious leader: “He said he will deal with me spiritually. I want to let him know that I’m from the Baasare tribe and I served as a soldier for 15 years.”
According to Jabari, the dispute did not begin recently as claimed by the prophet but rather dates back over two years.
He further denied accusations suggesting that he forcefully took the land from the clergyman. “I’ve not taken Opambour’s land. I legally acquired the two plots and I have all the necessary documents to prove ownership,” he said.
The controversy has attracted local attention, not only because of the prominence of the figures involved but also due to the potential for escalation, especially with the mention of the possible involvement of land guards—a notorious element in land disputes in Ghana.
Reverend Opambour, has yet to formally respond to the latest remarks by Jabari.
However, earlier reports indicate that he believes the lands were wrongfully taken and that the issue intensified following the political transition in the country.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
