Edem clears misconceptions about Ewes and ‘Juju’

Ghanaian rapper Edem born Denning Edem Hotor  has addressed long-standing misconceptions about the Ewe people, explaining that many of the beliefs often labelled as “juju” are actually rooted in cultural values centred on accountability and consequences for wrongdoing.

Speaking on Angel FM in Kumasi, the musician said the perception that Ewes are deeply associated with black magic is largely misunderstood, stressing that their cultural traditions focus more on morality, responsibility, and the idea of karma.

“We are just culturally anchored in beliefs and karma and the repercussions of the actions that one will get after a crime,” Edem explained. “Usually, people know they would get a penalty for it if they do any wrong, and it stems from our traditional beliefs and the kind of upbringing we get from home.”

According to him, the upbringing within many Ewe homes emphasises discipline and accountability from an early age. Parents, he noted, ensure that children grow up understanding the importance of responsibility and protecting the reputation of their families.

“Parents make sure their kids are accountable,” he said. “They value name and family more than other material things.”

Edem also spoke about the well-known Nogokpo Shrine, which is often mentioned in discussions about spiritual justice in the Volta Region. He explained that the shrine is traditionally associated with deterring theft and encouraging people who have committed wrongdoing to confess and make amends.

“The Nogokpo is a shrine that prevents people from stealing,” he stated. “They first announce for the thief to own up. If the thief does not, they will give the item stolen to the person who came to report the incident that their item has been stolen, then take the item from the person who stole it.”

He added that individuals accused of theft are often given some time to return the stolen item voluntarily before any spiritual consequences are believed to take effect.

“They give the thief some days to return it and if they do not own up, they strike them,” he said.

Despite explaining the cultural context surrounding the shrine, Edem clarified that his personal background is Christian and that he does not have direct experience with the practices.

“Some people believe in it but I am from a Christian background so I did not have a first-hand experience with it,” he added.