The Chiefs, Queen Mothers, and Elders of the Odau group in the Benkum Division of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area have announced their separation from the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area after 250 years of allegiance.
In a historic move, the Odau group has officially named their new leader, Odeniho Okukudurofo Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe, and declared Etwereso as their new traditional capital.
The decision follows a long-standing disagreement with the Akyem Abuakwa Overlord, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, which resulted in the withdrawal of his Daasebre title.
A Historic Breakaway
The Chiefs, Queen Mothers, and Principal Elders of the Odau group, under the Benkum Division of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, have formally announced their decision to break away from the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council. This marks the end of a 250-year relationship between the two factions.
Speaking on behalf of the Queen Mothers, Principal Elders, and Chiefs, Odau Twafohene Baffour Osei Afrifa confirmed the separation. He emphasized that the Odau group, now led by Odeniho Okukudurofo Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe, has officially withdrawn from the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, naming Etwereso as its new traditional capital.
Reasons for the Separation
The decision comes after years of tension with the Akyem Abuakwa Overlord, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, and the subsequent withdrawal of the Daasebre title. The Overlord also imposed a restriction on the Odau leadership’s access to Ofori Panin Fie, further escalating the situation.
Baffour Osei Afrifa noted that this breakaway is a significant moment in the history of the Akyem people, marking the culmination of years of unresolved disagreements and deliberations.
A New Era for the Odau Traditional Area
Baffour Osei Afrifa emphasized that the Odauhene will preside over and make decisions on all traditional matters within the newly established Odau Traditional Area. He also stated that the group will seek government recognition by requesting a certificate for its own Traditional Council, as its citizens will no longer be under the jurisdiction of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Authority.
The New Overlord Speaks
In a ceremony to announce the separation, the newly crowned leader of the Odau Traditional Area, Odeniho Okukudurofo Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe, addressed the gathering. He expressed deep gratitude to the Aduana Royal Family of Odau and the principal elders for placing their trust in him, especially after being neglected by the Akyem Abuakwa. He assured the people of his commitment to protecting their land, resources, and culture.
The newly appointed overlord also called for unity among the people of Odau, urging them to collaborate and work towards improving the development and well-being of their traditional area.
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