A rising feud between the traditional councils of Akyem Abuakwa and Akyem Kotoku has been ignited by the installation of a rival chief in Adoagyiri, sanctioned by Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin.
Amidst heightened security, Barima Adu Korkor III was enstooled on August 19, 2023, in a ceremony attended by armed police and the Okyeman Taskforce.
However, the opposing faction from Akyem Kotoku disputes the legitimacy of this act, asserting that Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh II has held the title of chief in Adoagyiri for the past 15 years.
The controversy stems from the Akyem Abuakwa traditional council’s claim that the incumbent chief’s enstoolment lacks legitimacy as it did not occur under their authority. In contrast, the Akyem Kotoku faction insists that the Adoagyiri chieftaincy is lawfully held by Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh II.
Barima Nana Arkoh-Frempong Oware, the convener of the aggrieved youth, highlighted a decision made by the Judicial Committee of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs in February 2022 that confirmed Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh II as Chief of Adoagyiri and Ankobeahene of Akyem Kotoku Traditional Council. The group questions the basis on which the Akyem Abuakwa traditional council and the state secretary dispute these claims.
The youth further assert that the title “Barima Adu Korkoor II” has no historical or official recognition in the records of Adoagyiri Stool or Akyem Kotoku Traditional Council.
They challenge the assertion that this title swore allegiance to Akyem Abuakwahene, characterizing such claims as distortion and misinformation.
Urgent intervention is being sought from various authorities, including President Akufo Addo, the Inspector General of Police, and the Ministry of National Security, to defuse the situation and maintain peace in the region.
An ongoing impasse between the two councils has led to an injunction on the Odwira Festival celebrations, which were organized by Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh II.
In a press conference held by the Akyem Abuakwa traditional council, it was emphasized that Adoagyiri has historically been an integral part of Akyem Abuakwa, falling under the Apapam stool of the Amantuomiensa Group. Records and evidence of land transactions are cited to support this position.
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