Awutu-Bawjiase (C/R), March 16, GNA - The Ankobeahene of Awutu Traditional Area, Nai Kwao Otuo V, has urged churches and religious organisations to initiate programmes to stem the peddling of falsehood against public figures and the nation by some people.

He said this social menace was causing serious damage not only to the individuals but was also affecting the development of the nation since it drove away potential investors.

Nai Otuo was speaking on the topic, "The destructive effects of rumour mongering and the spread of false news about public figures and the nation" at separate Church services at Awutu-Bawjiase.

According to him, the move was part of an initiative by leaders of the Ankobea Division of the Traditional Area to sensitise people on the dangers associated with rumour mongering and the spreading of falsehood. The services were held at the Presbyterian Church, Christ Apostolic Church International and the Apostolic Church Ghana at Bawjiase. The Ankobeahene urged the leaders of the Churches to inculcate truth and honesty among their members.

Nai Otuo told the congregations that falsehood was one of the most dangerous vices, which demoralised individuals and wiped away their hard won creditability, adding that, in some cases it diminished their respect and honour.

The Ankobeahene denied reports that he had brought Dr Ram Berkley, whose alleged activities had incurred the displeasure of some people to his new palace complex under construction at Awutu Mankessim New Town, near Bawjiase.

He said for the nation to move forward Ghanaians should be truthful and avoid castigating distinguished personalities without first taking pains to investigate issues about such personalities. Nai Otuo charged Christians and Muslims to embark on an exercise in communities to help in curbing the phenomenon in the society. He urged the people to embark on productive ventures to ensure national development instead of circulating falsehood to tarnish the image of others.

At the Christ Apostolic Church International, the Reverend William A. Mensah, District Pastor asked Christians to let hard work and perseverance to be their hallmark to enable them to successful in their endeavours.

The District Pastor of the Apostolic Church Ghana, Rev Ben Kwakum Hayford, urged Ghanaians to eschew rumour mongering and other vices that impeded socio-economic and spiritual advancement of the nation. Evangelist J. W .K. Botchway of the Presbyterian Church appealed to members of the Church to help in defusing allegations, which did not have foundation.