On the back of an apology from Bishop Salifu Amoako to the families affected by the fatal accident caused by his 16-year-old son, entertainment pundit Vida Adwutwumwaa Boateng has stated that while the tragic incident is heartbreaking, the apology should be considered in the spirit of reconciliation.
She believes the preacher has endured sorrow, having been hit with the devastating news and backlash from several quarters.
“Our condolences to the bereaved family. We expect the law to take its course,” she said. “The offender is a minor, and the parents are taking the blame due to his age. An apology has been rendered, so we plead with the family; if they can accept the apology, they should do so, so we can move on.”
Salifu Amoako, a prominent religious leader and father of Elrad Salifu Amoako, the 16-year-old boy involved in the tragic accident that claimed the lives of two young girls in East Legon on Saturday, October 12, 2024, issued a public apology in a viral video addressing the incident.
This was after an Accra Circuit Court on Wednesday granted bail to the General Overseer of Alive Chapel International and his wife, who had been arrested to assist in the investigation.
“I am devastated, and no amount of words can reverse this tragic and horrible incident. I have cried so much… But all that I’m asking is that may God console your families, may God give you strength to heal in these trying moments,” he said on Friday, October 18.
“I am pleading with all Ghanaians to plead with the families on my behalf,” he added.
Commenting on the apology during her submission on UTV’s United Showbiz on Saturday, October 20, 2024, Vida expressed concern over the incessant criticism and insults hurled at the preacher.
She referenced the apology video, stressing that the clergyman feels deep sorrow for the damage his son has caused.
“Prophet has spoken, and it’s evident from his swollen eyes that he has really wept,” she said. “He had no option but to apologize. He has suffered damages from every angle. His family has been attacked for lacking parental control; his calling as a prophet has been questioned to the point that his apology has been dismissed. It seems like there’s no help for him from anywhere.”
About the accident
The incident occurred when 16-year-old Elrad Salifu Amoako, driving at high speed, lost control of a Jaguar SUV (GN 7801-20), crashing into a 4×4 Acura vehicle (GR 2542-23).
The collision caused both vehicles to catch fire, resulting in the tragic deaths of two girls, Justine Agbenu and Maame Dwomoh, who were in the Acura, being burned beyond recognition.
Following the accident, Bishop Salifu Amoako and his wife Mouha Amoako, mother of the 16-year-old, were arrested on October 15 and later granted bail of GH¢50,000 each.
Watch video of a vigil held for the deceased below:
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