The planned burial and final funeral rites for the late Apostle Prof. Emeritus Kwadwo Safo have been indefinitely postponed. This follows the Kantanka family's decision to initiate legal action concerning the implementation of the industrialist's last will and testament.
Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I, who identifies as the Head of the Kantanka Family, announced the legal challenge on Monday, July 27, 2026. He stated that the family has not been granted custody of the late Apostle Safo's mortal remains, which he believes contradicts the provisions of the will. This disagreement, along with other perceived deviations from the will's directives, has complicated efforts to achieve family consensus on the funeral arrangements.
This development underscores broader issues of succession and asset management within prominent Ghanaian families and religious institutions. Disputes over wills and estates, particularly those involving significant assets or public figures, frequently lead to protracted legal battles. Such cases can impact the stability and public perception of the entities involved, including the Kristo Asafo Mission of Ghana (KAMOG) founded by Apostle Safo. The delay in funeral rites for such a revered figure also highlights the cultural importance of proper burial in Ghana and the potential for family disagreements to disrupt these traditions.
Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I expressed his disappointment that reconciliation efforts, involving members of the Aduana Kotoko Royal Family, church elders, chiefs, and queen mothers, proved unsuccessful. He personally reached out to his siblings, including former Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo, to promote unity. However, these engagements did not achieve the desired resolution, leading to the decision to pursue legal recourse.
The family has instructed Kwame Gyan & Associates, led by Prof. Kwame Gyan, to commence legal proceedings. This action seeks appropriate relief from the courts and aims to ensure that the wishes expressed in Apostle Kwadwo Safo's last will and testament are fully respected and legally enforced. This decision was made with reluctance, only after exhausting all reasonable avenues for an amicable resolution.
The legal battle could have significant implications for the leadership and future direction of the Kristo Asafo Mission and the Kantanka Group of Companies. The outcome will likely influence the distribution of assets and control over the late Apostle Safo's legacy, which includes his industrial innovations and religious institutions. All stakeholders, including members of the Kristo Asafo Mission and the public, are urged to remain calm and avoid actions that could inflame tensions during this sensitive period. The courts are now tasked with interpreting the will and ensuring its proper execution, a process that could take considerable time and resources.