The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA) has suspended all burials at the historic Osu Cemetery with immediate effect, following reports of illegal exhumations, desecration of human remains, and the unauthorised sale of burial plots.
Municipal Chief Executive Alfred Ato Allotey-Gaisie announced the decision during a press conference on Thursday, February 5, describing the alleged practices as criminal, deeply offensive, and a violation of cultural values and respect for the dead.
“We have taken notice of the disturbing reports and magnified complaints regarding the illegal and unethical activities and procedures, including the unlawful excavation of graves, desecration of human remains and the unauthorised sale of burial sites to grieving and unsuspecting families,” Mr Allotey-Gaisie stated.
“All burials at Osu Cemetery are hereby put on hold. They will be put on hold for the next two months,” he declared.
The two-month suspension aims to facilitate a thorough assessment, audit of burial records and permits, verification of documentation, and comprehensive restructuring of cemetery management to address systemic gaps, prevent future abuses, and curb security and financial irregularities.
While the ban applies to the general public, the MCE indicated that burials for indigenes may be permitted under strictly controlled and exceptional procedures.
Mr Allotey-Gaisie condemned the reported acts in the strongest terms, noting that such conduct is not only criminal but also profoundly disrespectful to Ghanaian moral and cultural conscience.
To enforce the suspension and safeguard the site, additional security personnel will be deployed, while the Assembly’s Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit has been directed to intensify sanitisation efforts, sensitisation, and monitoring to preserve the dignity of those interred.
“These measures are intended to prevent further illegal access, grave desecration and unauthorised activities within the cemetery premises,” he added.
The decision comes amid growing public concern over the management of the Osu Cemetery, one of Accra’s oldest burial grounds, following earlier alarms raised by citizens about grave tampering and resale of plots.
The Assembly assured affected families and the public that the temporary closure will help restore order, accountability, and integrity to the facility. Investigations into the alleged malpractices are ongoing, with potential legal action against those found culpable.