A severe traffic gridlock on sections of the Accra–Kumasi highway has sparked widespread public anger after motorists and passengers were stranded for nearly 24 hours due to a church event.
Travellers on the Juaso and Asankare stretches of the highway on Wednesday and Thursday experienced prolonged delays following the 31st Watchnight Service organised by the Believers Worship Centre, led by its Overseer, Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah. The service, held at the church’s newly constructed Philadelphia City Auditorium, attracted thousands of worshippers, overwhelming the road network in the area.
Videos circulating on social media captured frustrated motorists and passengers lamenting the situation. Many described the gridlock as their worst travel experience, citing the lack of alternative routes and the complete standstill of traffic. “Because of worship, we are all stuck here… no car is going, no car is coming,” one traveller complained in a video. Another described the incident as “complete madness” and called for measures to prevent a recurrence.
The traffic congestion affected trucks, buses, and private vehicles alike, leaving commuters stranded for hours. Although traffic has since eased, many road users say the disruption caused significant hardship and inconvenience.
The Philadelphia City Auditorium, the venue for the Watchnight Service, has recently drawn public attention for its size, architectural elegance, and advanced technological features. Footage of the facility shared online has generated widespread reactions.
Ahead of the event, church leadership reportedly issued strict directives banning all forms of trading within the church premises during the Watchnight Service and beyond. In a video shared on social media, a church representative warned that anyone found selling items would have their goods and proceeds confiscated.
Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah has also been at the centre of separate controversies in recent weeks. In one instance, he urged church members to sell their properties and follow him, promising blessings to those who complied. His remarks, shared widely on social media, generated mixed reactions from the public.
Additionally, broadcaster Captain Smart has criticised the preacher, accusing him of exploiting his followers for commercial gain. Captain Smart specifically questioned the sale of a drink referred to as *Yesu Mogya* (Blood of Jesus), which was claimed to have healing powers. His comments have further fueled debate among Ghanaians online.
The gridlock incident has reignited calls for better coordination between event organisers, local authorities, and security agencies to prevent large gatherings from disrupting major highways and endangering public convenience and safety.
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