An elderly woman's home in Oyarifa, Ghana, was partially demolished, prompting her lawyers to demand an explanation from authorities. The property, owned by Madam Barbara Boateng, was demolished despite her claims that she has the necessary documentation to prove her ownership.
Lawyers Challenge Demolition of Elderly Woman's Home
Lawyers for Madam Boateng, Beyuo & Co, have written to the Head of the Flood Mitigation Task Force and the Municipal Chief Executive of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly, questioning the decision to demolish part of the property. In a letter dated July 27, 2026, the lawyers argued that their client was not adequately engaged before the exercise and that the property is neither located on a waterway nor within a road reservation.
The lawyers claim that the Assembly had recently placed a demolition notice on Madam Boateng's fence wall but failed to formally engage her or explain the reasons for the intended demolition. According to the lawyers, the client holds a Land Title covering the property as well as building permits for the construction of her dwelling house and the surrounding fence wall.
Residents Express Sympathy for Demolished Homeowner
Concerned residents in the area have expressed sympathy for Madam Boateng and called for a review of the circumstances surrounding the demolition. They argue that while authorities have a responsibility to protect waterways, road reservations, and other public spaces from encroachment, enforcement exercises must also respect the rights of property owners.
The residents say the matter raises broader questions about due process, property rights, and the responsibility of public authorities to properly engage affected residents before demolishing private property. They have expressed support for Madam Boateng's lawyers in their pursuit of justice.
Lawyers Vow to Protect Client's Rights
Madam Boateng's lawyers have indicated that they are prepared to pursue all lawful avenues to protect what they describe as their client's constitutional rights if the authorities fail to engage her. They are seeking clarity on the legal basis for the demolition and have called for the matter to be reviewed.
The lawyers have demanded that no further demolition action be taken against the property until Madam Boateng is formally engaged and the basis for the exercise is clearly established. They are now seeking a formal engagement with the relevant authorities to determine whether the demolition was justified and whether the appropriate procedures were followed.
The dispute comes amid ongoing demolition and enforcement exercises in parts of the Greater Accra Region aimed at removing structures considered to be encroaching on waterways, road reservations, and other restricted areas. The incident has sparked debate about the balance between public interest and property rights in Ghana.
For Madam Boateng, the immediate issue is the portion of her home that has already been affected. Her lawyers are working tirelessly to ensure that her rights are protected and that justice is served. The outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for property owners in Ghana and will set a precedent for future enforcement exercises.
Source: Joy Online
