Dr Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I, Chief of Akyem Sokode Juaso, together with 15 other traditional leaders, swore the Oath of Allegiance to the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, during the Second State Council Meeting held at Ofori Panin Fie in Kyebi, in the Abuakwa South Municipality of the Eastern Region, on Friday, July 31, 2026.

The ceremony formed part of the State Council Meeting of the Okyeman Traditional Council, where the newly enstooled chiefs formally pledged their loyalty to the Okyenhene and reaffirmed their commitment to the customs, traditions and development agenda of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Dr. Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, and the elders of Okyeman, particularly the Adonten Division led by Daasebre Boamah Darko II, for the confidence reposed in him to lead the people of Akyem Sokode Juaso.

He pledged to work closely with his elders and subjects to accelerate development in the community, stressing that education remains the cornerstone of national and community development.

He therefore appealed to the Government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), civil society organisations, corporate institutions and well-meaning individuals to support efforts aimed at improving educational infrastructure and ensuring access to quality education across the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area.

On the issue of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, Dr. Barimah Kwabena Awuah Parker I, who also serves as Co-Commander of the Okyeman Environmental Protection Brigade, reaffirmed the Okyenhene's unwavering commitment to protecting the environment and preserving major water bodies, including the Birim and Densu rivers.

He disclosed that consultations are far advanced with the current NAIMOS Commander and the Minister for Finance to develop a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen the fight against illegal mining and effectively address its devastating impact on the environment.

The chief further called for peace, unity and cooperation among the people, emphasizing that prolonged litigation and chieftaincy disputes do not promote development. He urged traditional leaders to lead by example by fostering dialogue, reconciliation and mutual understanding within their respective communities.

Meanwhile, addressing members of the State Council, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin lamented the destructive impact of illegal mining activities on the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area. He reiterated the urgent need for renewed collaboration among traditional authorities, government agencies, security services and other stakeholders to intensify efforts to combat the menace, protect the environment and preserve the area's natural resources for future generations.