‘Apapam Chief installation unlawful’

Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council has annulled the installation of Nana Opoku Akyeampong as the Apapamhene and head of the Amantuomiensa Division of Akyem Abuakwa.

According to the Council, the installation was unlawful, uncustomary and irregular.

Daasebre Boamah Darko, Adontenhene and Kukrantumihene of Akyem Abuakwa in a statement said, “It has come to the notice of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council a serious customary violation with regards to a purported installation of a certain Nana Kwame Opoku Akyeampong as the Apapamhene and head of the Amantuomiensa Division of Akyem Abuakwa on Tuesday 7, October 2014.

“We condemn the fundamental customary breaches and irregularities connected to the purported installation of Nana Kwame Opoku Akyeampong.”

He said the purported installation was on an Ohum Da – a sacred day observed on the Akyem Abuakwa customary calendar when the ban on drumming is strictly adhered to.

“The related implication of this observance is that there can be no legitimate installation process of any kind. The more serious concern is that the processes for nomination, selection and enstoolment have been violated,” Daasebre Boamah Darko said.

He said the choice of candidate must reflect the wishes of the three Agona Royal Houses which are Asunafo, Abomosu and Banso, stating that the consent of Okyenhene Osagyefo Amotia Ofori Panin was never sought with regards to the purported installation as required by custom.

Daasebre Boamah Darko said “We have received complaints from a majority of senior members of these houses to the effect that they are unable to give consent for the nomination of Nana Kwame Opoku Akyeampong as Apapamhene.

“We hold strongly the need for a total review of the unfolding development as a measure for peace and unity in Akyem Apapam.

“This is with regards to the interest of Nana Kwame Opoku Akyeampong and Okyeman in general.”

He urged all parties in the matter to maintain the peace and avail themselves of legitimate customary measures for redress of grievances.