The chiefs of the Nzema Traditional Area, the birthplace of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, have firmly rejected the apology issued by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) running mate, for his recent remarks about Dr. Nkrumah.

During his introduction event in Kumasi, Dr. Opoku Prempeh stated that President Nana Akufo-Addo had outperformed all previous Ghanaian presidents in terms of development, including Dr. Nkrumah. This comment sparked widespread criticism, leading Dr. Opoku Prempeh to issue a written apology.

However, in a press conference held over the weekend, Nana Kwasi Kutuah V, speaking on behalf of the Nzema chiefs, emphasized that the written apology was insufficient. The chiefs insist that Dr. Opoku Prempeh must personally visit Nkroful, Dr. Nkrumah’s birthplace, to offer a formal apology.

Nana Kwasi Kutuah V highlighted the profound respect and significance Dr. Nkrumah holds for the Nzema people and the entire nation of Ghana. He described any negative remarks about the late President as deeply offensive to the community.

"Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh's statement was a disrespect to all Ghanaians, particularly to the Nzema people, the Western Region, and Nkrofulman," Nana Kwasi Kutuah V stated. "We acknowledge his written apology, but we demand he come here in person to apologize to us, the chiefs, and Dr. Nkrumah’s family."

The Nzema chiefs believe that a personal apology at Nkroful, a place symbolic of Dr. Nkrumah’s legacy, is crucial to restoring respect and goodwill.

They assert that this gesture would appropriately address the community’s grievances and honor their revered leader’s memory.