In Akropong, a second Okuapehene has emerged, challenging the government-backed Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, also known in private life as Odehye Kwadwo Kesse Antwi.

This development has thrown the Akuapem traditional area into turmoil, compelling the Akuapem North Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) to escalate the issue by bringing Odehye Kwasi Akuffo, a royal who claims the Okuapehene title, before the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) for further intervention.

The situation escalated on Saturday, August 12, 2023, when Odehye Kwasi Akuffo, reportedly an unsuccessful contestant for the vacant Ofori Kuma stool, presented himself as Okuapehene during the funeral of Odehye Gladys Abena Otema Ohene.

During the event, Odehye Kwasi Akuffo adorned himself in traditional regalia, accompanied by traditional drumming and dancing, along with appellations that implied his legitimacy as Okuapehene.

This action incited strong resentment within Okuapeman, leading some youth to express their frustration by threatening to apprehend Odehye Kwasi Akuffo, although their actions were eventually restrained.

Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, who has been officially recognized by state authorities as the Okuapehene for 37 years, voiced his discontent regarding the incident. He subsequently referred the matter to the appropriate institutions for immediate action, while his legal team contemplated the possibility of citing Odehye Kwasi Akuffo for contempt.

In response to the situation, the Akuapem North Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) held an emergency meeting on Tuesday, August 15, 2023. However, Odehye Kwasi Akuffo declined the council's invitation.

Barima Asiedu Larbi, Chairman of MUSEC and the Municipal Chief Executive, addressed the media and explained that the matter had been forwarded to the Eastern Regional Security Council for guidance and necessary action.

“The whole of Okuapeman knows that it is Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III who is legitimate chief and properly gazetted and for that matter the one we all serving .So it came as a surprise when we head someone was parading as Okuapehene. So I detailed my security officers to embark on investigation. So we held Security Council meeting this afternoon and we have taken setting steps in addressing the issue to ensure there is peace and stability for the people of Akuapem. We have decided to write to REGSEC so that REGSEC will also direct what should be done …so that subsequently whatever action they want us to take we will take.”

However, he gave the assurance that security is on top of things and there is total calm, so the Odwira event would go on as planned.

“My security men are on ground. Everything is stabilized and we will keep stabilizing the environment so nobody should be afraid at all.People are speculating that this year’s Odwira is going to be affected by what happened on Saturday. I again want to assure that Odwira is coming on live and for the first time in almost about six years this is the first time Oseadeeyo will be in palanquin and so we have put so many security measures in place in ensuring that he will successfully celebrate this year’s Odwira festival. Whoever tries to destabilize the peace and security will be handed over to the security forces for the law to take its on course”.

“I stand on the shoulders of generations of matriarchs who have preceded me in serving Okuapeman and I will do everything within my power to help Okuapeman tap into the boundless possibilities that lie ahead,” Marigold said.

“I stand on the shoulders of generations of matriarchs who have preceded me in serving Okuapeman and I will do everything within my power to help Okuapeman tap into the boundless possibilities that lie ahead,” Marigold said.