The family of Fatima, the young girl tragically killed during this year’s Fire Festival in Bimbilla, says it has surrendered the matter to the will of Allah, describing her death as part of God’s divine plan.
Speaking to Channel One News on Sunday, July 6, family spokesperson Mohammed Abdul Rashid said the incident, though painful, has been accepted in faith.
“Everything that is done on this earth is by the will of Allah. So the family has given everything to God. Whatever happened that might have caused the life of our daughter and sister-in-law is the will of God, and for that matter, we have left everything to Him,” he said.
However, Mr. Rashid issued a strong caution to the youth in the community, especially those involved in the dangerous use of weapons during traditional celebrations. He warned that such practices have dire consequences and must end.
“The piece of advice I will give to the youth in the community is that this is a festival meant for celebration, so we should desist from firing guns. The continued use of such weapons will cost us dearly, as it has already happened,” he advised.
Fatima reportedly died instantly after being struck in the neck by a bullet fired by an unidentified individual during the celebrations. Her body was conveyed to the hospital morgue by security officers soon after the incident.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as celebrants ignored prior warnings from the Municipal Security Council and fired guns into the air during the festivities.
The incident has reignited national concern over the widespread and dangerous misuse of firearms during traditional festivals, especially in northern Ghana.
Just days before the festival, the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons had issued an advisory urging the public to avoid displaying or discharging weapons during the Fire Festival. Despite the warnings, the tragic death has underscored the urgent need for stricter enforcement and community education to prevent future casualties.
