A major chieftaincy development is unfolding in the Eastern Region as Akyem Odauman has officially broken away from the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, ending a relationship that has lasted for nearly 300 years.
The decision, announced at a press conference by chiefs, kingmakers, and family heads, including the Ofosu-Pema Royal Family, marks a significant shift in the traditional governance structure within the Akyem area. The group has also initiated moves to seek formal government recognition for the establishment of a separate Akyem Odauman Traditional Council.
The development follows escalating tensions between the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, and the Odauhene, Odeneho Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe. The dispute is said to have been triggered by a series of decisions by the Okyenhene, including a ban on the Odauhene from entering the Ofori Panin Palace in Kyebi, the withdrawal of the “Daasebre” title, and attempts to reassign towns traditionally under Odauman authority.
Speaking at the press conference, the Twafohene of Odauman, Barfuor Osei Afrifa, attributed the tensions to a chieftaincy dispute in Akyem Osenase, where the Odauhene opposed the installation of what he described as a non-royal as regent.
He further emphasized that Odauman was historically an independent state, comprising 12 towns and 58 villages, reinforcing their claim to autonomy.
As part of the transition, the chiefs say they will formally petition the Government of Ghana to recognize a new traditional council for Odauman. Meanwhile, the Odauhene has also called for justice following a reported violent attack on him by armed men at Osenase.
