The family of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo has rejected claims by his son, Israel Nana Kwadwo Safo, to the leadership of the Kristo Asafo Mission. The family stated that Sarah Adwoa Safo is the rightful heir under the founder's established succession framework. This announcement follows an internal dispute within the religious movement and its associated industrial enterprises.
This rejection stems from a history of financial decline in Kristo Asafo businesses during Israel Safo's tenure, according to the family. The late Apostle Kwadwo Safo reportedly revoked Israel Safo's mandate in 2024. He then appointed Adwoa Safo as Head of the Family and revised the succession plan to exclude Israel Safo, establishing a clear roadmap for future leadership of the Mission.
The Kristo Asafo Mission is a significant Ghanaian religious body with various business ventures. The founder, Apostle Kwadwo Safo, passed away in September 2025. The ongoing leadership struggle could impact the stability and direction of these enterprises. This situation highlights the challenges of succession planning within large family-owned religious and business conglomerates in Ghana's economic landscape.
“The public is hereby advised to exercise caution in any dealings with Mr Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena that purport to represent the interests, assets, leadership, or affairs of the Kristo Asafo Mission or the Kwadwo Safo Family,” the family stated. They warned that engaging in such dealings would be “at his or her own risk.” This reflects the family's efforts to protect the legacy and assets of the late founder.
The current dispute escalated into violence, with Adwoa Safo sustaining gunshot injuries on June 21, 2026. This occurred while she attempted to serve court documents to her brother regarding his alleged attempt to install himself as leader. The Ghana Police Service has confirmed the incident, where a vehicle registered GN 3482-24 sustained gunshot damage. Six suspects have been arrested, and five pump-action guns and one sidearm were recovered. The police have invited Israel Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena for questioning. This incident could lead to further legal actions and investigations into the handling of the Kristo Asafo Mission's assets and leadership.
The family asserts that any leadership claim by Israel Kwadwo Safo Akofena is inconsistent with the late founder’s directives and is therefore not recognised. This firm stance indicates a protracted legal and familial battle ahead. Stakeholders and the public will be watching for the outcome of police investigations and court proceedings, which will ultimately determine the future leadership and direction of the Kristo Asafo Mission and its related businesses. The market implications for these businesses remain uncertain given the current instability.