Kokofu gets new omanhene

Kokofu (Ashanti), 19th July 99 ?

Peace and tranquility has returned to the Kokofu traditional area in Ashanti with the enstoolment of a new paramount chief.

This follows the resolution of the misunderstanding between the queenmother, Nana Ataa Birago, and the kingmakers over the selection of an omanhene.

Barima Offe Akwasi Okogyeasuo II, was on Thursday installed omanhene for Kokofu.

Known in private life as Mr Joseph Adu-Bobi alias Kwame Sakyi Adu-Abankoro, a retired educationist aged over 60, the new omanhene would swear the oath of allegiance to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene on Monday, July 19 at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

Barima Okogyeasuo succeeds his brother, the late Barima Kofi Adu II, who died three years ago.

The peaceful and colourful installation was witnessed by people from all walks of life.

At about 3 p.m., the omanhene rose from the family house and was guided by Gyaase to the durbar grounds, where he was introduced to the chiefs, elders and the people.

After this, the chiefs took turns to advise him to be tolerant, avoid discrimination and to mobilise the people for the development of the area.

Kyeame Agyei Akyamfuo, Asantehene's linguist who represented Otumfuo Osei Tutu, urged the people to help the new omanhene to ensure development.

The omanhene later swore the oath of allegiance to the people and promised to follow the good works of his predecessors for the development of the area.

The chiefs and the elders also swore allegiance to the omanhene, who later rode through the principal streets of the town in a palanquin.