Pastor Allegedly Hires “Town Boys” to Cut Down Historic Cola Tree in Kumasi
Details have surfaced regarding the shocking felling of the over 300-year-old historic cola tree near Kumasi, allegedly orchestrated by a local pastor. The tree, believed to have been planted by the renowned Okomfo Anokye fetish priest, faced the axe last Tuesday, raising concerns among residents.
The pastor in question hired a group of “town boys” to carry out the operation, offering them a reported GH¢5000 as an incentive. Some locals claim the pastor viewed the ancient tree as fetish and, based on his religious beliefs, decided it should be cut down, per Graphic Online reports.
Surprisingly, the tree had remained unscathed during the recent reconstruction of the Atonsu-Esreso-Bosomtwe dual carriageway. Authorities diverted the road to protect the historic site, leaving it untouched. The pastor, however, reportedly questioned this decision, leading to his alleged involvement in the unauthorized felling.
“some residents claimed they heard the so-called ‘Man of God’ ordered the cutting down of the tree based on his religious beliefs and described it as fetish,” reported Kusi Berko, a native of Feyiase.
The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with locals expressing disappointment in the pastor’s actions. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the pastor’s involvement and the motivations behind the destruction of this historic symbol.