Abrafo Kokoben Residents Petition Government, Otumfuo to Stop Jilf Mortuary Operations

Residents of Abrafo Kokoben New Site in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District of the Ashanti Region have petitioned the Government of Ghana and the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to intervene in what they describe as a looming public health crisis caused by the operations of a private mortuary in their neighborhood.

The facility, known as Jilf Mortuary, has been at the center of community outrage, with residents alleging that its location in the middle of a densely populated residential area is inappropriate and poses both health and psychological risks. They claim that the mortuary’s operations have brought fear, discomfort, and a decline in the quality of life in the area.

Leading the residents’ petition, Kofi Oppong Kyekyeku told journalists that repeated complaints to the Atwima Nwabiagya North District Assembly, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and traditional leaders have failed to produce any results. “We have spoken to our chiefs, we have reported to the EPA, but the mortuary is still operating. This is a clear health hazard, and that is why we are humbly appealing to both the government and our King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to step in and help us before the situation gets worse,” Mr. Kyekyeku stated.

Some residents described the mental strain of living near a mortuary, noting that the mere sight and awareness of its daily activities create anxiety, especially among children and the elderly. Others expressed fears of potential environmental contamination, unpleasant odors, and a drop in property values if the situation continues. “We are not against mortuaries — we understand their importance in society — but this one is in the wrong location. It is right in the middle of our homes, and that is unacceptable,” one resident lamented.

The community has vowed to intensify its advocacy until the mortuary is either closed down or relocated to a non-residential area that meets zoning and environmental standards.

Attempts to get a response from the management of Jilf Mortuary proved unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. Similarly, officials from the District Assembly and the EPA have not issued any public comment on the matter.

The Abrafo Kokoben standoff adds to the growing national conversation about the regulation and siting of mortuaries in Ghana, with many calling for stronger enforcement of health and environmental laws to ensure such facilities are established in locations that safeguard the wellbeing of residents.