By Daniel Bampoe
Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri Constituency in the Eastern Region, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving Zongo community following the tragic death of 35-year-old commercial motorbike rider, Masawudu Issaka, which triggered violent disturbances in Adoagyiri on May 22.
Issaka, who hailed from the Zongo enclave in Adoagyiri, was assaulted during a scuffle with a group of unidentified youth on May 20.
He suffered severe head injuries and was later transferred to the Ridge Hospital in Accra where he died on Thursday night, sparking outrage among youth in the area.
In the wake of the incident, hundreds of agitated youth took to the streets, burning tyres, blocking roads, and vandalizing properties in what many described as a retaliatory outburst.
The unrest led to injuries, damage to property, and the temporary shutdown of businesses, throwing the entire community into panic and fear.
In a swift move to de-escalate tensions and offer support, Annoh-Dompreh visited the community on Friday, May 23, where he addressed residents, community leaders, and the bereaved family.
During the visit, the MP expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event and assured the family of his unflinching support.
“This is not just a loss for the family, but for the entire Nsawam-Adoagyiri constituency,” Annoh-Dompreh stated.
“Masawudu Issaka was a hardworking young man. His death under such unfortunate circumstances is unacceptable, and I stand with the Zongo community in this moment of grief.”
He went further to personally console the widow and children of the deceased, promising to assist them during this difficult period.
“I will do everything within my means to support his widow and the two young sons left behind. They must not be left to suffer,” he said.
Touching on the violent aftermath of Issaka’s death, the MP pleaded with the youth to remain calm and avoid further acts of retaliation.
“While your pain is justified, violence will not bring back our brother. I appeal to you to allow the law to take its course,” he urged.
Annoh-Dompreh also pledged to seek justice for the late Issaka through official channels, vowing to raise the matter on the floor of Parliament when the House reconvenes.
“I will push for answers and demand accountability from the security agencies. We must ensure that those behind this heinous act are brought to book,” he declared.
Beyond justice, the MP emphasized the need for long-term peace building and unity within Adoagyiri, citing the area’s history of communal tension.
“We cannot continue living on the edge of conflict. We need to invest in peace and community dialogue to address the root causes of these recurring clashes,” he said.
He further called on the police and relevant security agencies to intensify investigations and provide the community with regular updates to rebuild trust and confidence in the system.
The Eastern South Regional Police Command, led by DCOP Ohene Boadi Bossman, has since confirmed that investigations are ongoing and suspects involved in both the killing and the reprisal attacks will be arrested.
Masawudu Issaka was buried on Friday after Jummah prayers amid a large funeral procession that reflected the deep pain and anger felt within the community.
The sight of his body reportedly deepened the emotional trauma for many residents.
While a sense of calm has gradually returned to Adoagyiri, a heavy police presence remains.
Local leaders, traditional authorities, and religious figures have also joined calls for calm as the community reels from yet another wave of violence tied to unresolved tensions.
