Tensions within the traditional leadership structure of the Greater Accra Region have intensified as Nii Ayi Okufoubour, a respected traditional figure, has launched a strong criticism against the Chief of Nungua Nii Odaifio Welentsi, accusing him of fueling prolonged chieftaincy disputes across the region.
According to Nii Ayi Okufoubour, the persistent conflicts tearing through several Ga communities are not isolated incidents but are allegedly connected to petitions, actions, and interference traced to the Nungua Stool.
He claims the Nungua Chief has played a destabilizing role in matters of succession, and the installation of unqualified persons as chiefs which continues to trigger misunderstandings among various clans.
Speaking passionately to this portal, Nii Ayi Okufoubour argued that the Nungua Chief’s involvement in what he described as unauthorized traditional interventions has eroded unity within the Ga State.
He further asserted that the region’s recurring disputes over rightful heirs could be minimized or eliminated if the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs adhere strictly to their traditional jurisdictions.
He warned that the continuous escalation of disputes could hamper development efforts, inflame tensions among youth groups, and weaken the cultural fabric of the Ga people.
He therefore called on the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo and the Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Minister Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, and other related government authorities to step in and address what he deems a growing threat to peace and cohesion.
Nii Ayi Okufoubour believes that resolving chieftaincy matters requires truth, transparency, and adherence to long-standing customs rather than bending the rules.
Touching on the James Town Paramountcy crisis, Nii Ayi Okufoubour blamed the Nungua Chief and the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs for their roles in what has made it impossible so far to put the matter to rest,
Nii asserts that Bruce-Quaye does not hail from either of the two recognized ruling houses. He bypassed traditional processes and forcefully broke and entered the stool room. (Video attached)
His adoption of the title “Wetse Kojo II” is historically inaccurate; elders maintain the rightful successor should be the third to bear the title.
Nii finds it’s hard to comprehend why in the mist of all the facts above the Regional House of Chiefs headed by the Nungua Chief will throw caution to the wind and support such a character to try and ascend the throne to become a Paramount Chief.
Nii stated that Bruce-Quaye is not from either of the two recognized ruling houses eligible to produce a paramount chief. Was previously destooled as a sub-chief by his own family
Nii Ayi Okufoubour stated that any attempt to recognize Bruce-Quaye without addressing these disputes undermines traditional authority and threatens community harmony.
Accusations Against the House of Chiefs
Both the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs and the National House of Chiefs have come under intense criticism, with elders accusing them of facilitating what they call a “fraudulent gazetting” of Bruce-Quaye despite active court disputes. Some officials have been accused of procedural breaches and bias, further eroding trust in Ghana’s chieftaincy governance structures.