Akyem Odauman, together with its 12 towns and 58 villages, has exited the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, ending a relationship with Okyeman that lasted nearly 300 years.
The announcement was made by the Twafohene, Barfuor Osei Afrifa, who spoke on behalf of the Aduana Royal Family of Akyem Odauman.
He blamed Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin for the historic decision, citing strained ties with Odeneho Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe.
According to Barfuor Osei Afrifa, the Odauhene has served the Okyenhene faithfully.
He acted as regent of Akyem Begoro, used his personal resources to organize the 25th anniversary durbar at Begoro, and served as chairman of the Arts and Culture Committee.
He noted that the Okyenhene himself had previously commended Odeneho Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe for his good work for Okyeman.
Barfuor Osei Afrifa said the Ofosu Pema household has worked with the Ofori Panin household for more than two centuries, but today they are ending that alliance.
He stressed that Akyem Odauman owns its towns, villages, and lands, and urged the occupants of Ofori Panin Fie to stay off their properties.
He further alleged that the Okyenhene had made several attempts to install one Boakye Asafo Agyei as regent of Akyem Osenase, which the Odauhene resisted on grounds that the said gentleman is not from the royal family.
Barfuor Osei Afrifa accused the Okyenhene of breaking the Oath of the Akyem Abuakwa State, stating that because of this, they will no longer serve him.
He added that they will make a representation to government for the necessary certification to be recognized as a Traditional Council, stressing that their citizens will no longer be bound by rulings of the Akyem Abuakwa State.
He pointed out that even on the Akyem Abuakwa State map proudly displayed at Ofori Panin Fie, Akyem Etwereso is not included.
“Etwereso falls way outside the map. So how does the Okyenhene own Etwereso?” he questioned.
He declared that from now on, there are four Akyem states: Akyem Abuakwa, Akyem Kotoku, Akyem Bosome, and Akyem Odau.
He noted that any ruler of Akyem Etwereso will bear the title Odeneho.
Odauhene Odeneho Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe commended the people for their support during difficult times.
He promised to protect the people and lands of Odau and not allow anyone to take their towns and lands from them.
He also pledged to continue with development in the towns and urged the people to maintain their support, assuring them he will not let them down.
Report by Raskorsa.