The Chief of Ashaiman, Nii Annang Adzor, has openly challenged the Member of Parliament for the area, Mr. Ernest Norgbey, accusing him of dishonesty and disrespect toward traditional authority over matters relating to the Ashaiman Irrigation Development Authority (IDA) lands.

The confrontation occurred during the 41st Farmers’ Day celebration at the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, where the MP alleged that private developers were encroaching on IDA lands originally earmarked for agricultural purposes.

According to him, the growing takeover of the land by private entities poses a major threat to agricultural livelihoods within the municipality.

Responding sharply, Nii Annang Adzor dismissed the MP’s comments as misleading and politically motivated.

He claimed that the MP had never engaged the Ashaiman Divisional Council on the matter, yet had chosen to present himself as an advocate for farmers on a public platform.

“Mr. Ernest Norgbey is known for making such claims during Farmers’ Day celebrations. But today, the people have witnessed the level of dishonesty he displayed.

When did he observe these encroachments, and what has he done about them? Can an MP who doesn’t engage the Divisional Council speak authoritatively on these issues?” he questioned.

The Chief advised the MP to exercise restraint and show respect in his public statements, warning that such conduct could damage his credibility and cause needless tension within the community.

He further noted that political positions are temporary, unlike traditional leadership.

“Ashaiman is no longer predominantly a farming community. Years ago, the stretch from the motorway to Lebanon Zone was full of farmland, but urbanisation has changed that. If the MP wants to comment on such issues, he must do so with circumspection.

He will one day leave office, but the traditional leaders will remain,” he stated.

Despite his criticism of the MP, Nii Annang Adzor urged the youth to take advantage of opportunities in modern agriculture. He highlighted the prospects in agribusiness and assured that farming remains a profitable venture even in a rapidly urbanising environment like Ashaiman.

The event brought together agricultural stakeholders, Assembly officials and community members, who commended the resilience of local farmers amid growing urban pressure.