The Paramount Chief and President of the Somé Traditional Council, Togbui Adama III, has expressed dissatisfaction over government officials’ engagements with Assembly Members in the area without the involvement of traditional authorities.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, as part of his working tour of the Ketu South Municipality, Togbui Adama said chiefs had been sidelined, especially in situations of community crises such as the recent tidal wave disasters at Gavedzi, Salakofe, and Amutinu.

He noted that relief and support interventions by government officials were often coordinated solely with Assembly Members, excluding chiefs and community leaders, a practice he described as disrespectful and detrimental to traditional governance.

“Some Assembly Members now disregard traditional authority, and every attempt to bring them to order has failed,” Togbui Adama said, blaming the situation on the way government officials had chosen to engage the local leadership structure.

Despite these concerns, Togbui Adama III commended the government for its efforts in responding to the tidal wave crisis and the awarding of the Blekusu Sea Defence Project Phase II to protect the coastal belt.

He appealed to the Minister for the construction of the Agbozume–Adina road, a critical route that connects other coastal communities of Somé to Agbozume.

He said the road would ease movement for traders and facilitate community meetings and development.

Togbui Adama further called on the government to support the rehabilitation of the Agbozume and Denu markets.

He disclosed that a native of Agbozume had pledged to redevelop the Somé National Basic School, located behind the Agbozume market, and expand the market in front of the school.

He called for the government intervention in compensating affected property owners to facilitate the project.

In addition, he appealed for the deployment of more police personnel to the Agbozume District Command to help address rising crime in the area.

In his response, Regional Minister Mr. James Gunu assured the Traditional Council that the concerns would be addressed.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to partnering with traditional authorities and stakeholders in addressing the pressing development needs of the area.

Mr. Gunu also assured that sod-cutting for the Blekusu Sea Defence Project Phase II would soon take place, following the award of the contract to Amandi Company.

He said the project would protect lives, restore livelihoods, and revitalize the local economy.