Akyem Kotoku Overlord Calls for Calm Amid Unauthorized Queenmother Installation
Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV urges restraint following an unauthorized attempt to install a new queenmother in Akyem Oda.
The Overlord of Akyem Kotoku, Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, has appealed for calm after an unauthorized group attempted to install a new queenmother in Akyem Oda. On March 30, 2026, chiefs and residents gathered at the Kotoku Palace to discuss the incident, which has caused widespread concern in the traditional area.
The event in question occurred on January 29, 2026, when approximately 70 individuals convened at the residence of Barima Tawia in Akyem Oda Old Town, ostensibly for a family meeting. During this gathering, a group led by self-proclaimed Abusuapanin Emmanuel Ofori Atta of the Attafuah family, along with Yaw Asiedu Danquah, John Dekyem Attafuah, and other elders, purportedly installed Miss Sandra Sarpong as the queenmother of the Akyem Kotoku State.
This development has sparked confusion and tension, especially amid reports concerning the health of the current queenmother, Nana Akua Asantewaa III. Addressing the assembly, Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV confirmed that the queenmother is unwell, a situation that has fueled speculation within the community.
The clandestine nature of the installation has raised serious concerns among residents and traditional authorities. Public reaction has been largely critical, with many questioning the legitimacy of the process and the motives of those involved, particularly given the queenmother’s current condition. Some observers have linked the incident to longstanding efforts by members of the Attafuah family to install a queenmother from their lineage.
In response to the rising tensions, Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV emphasized the need to uphold established customs and unity within the state. He reiterated that, under Akan customary law, only the paramount chief has the authority to install or destool a queenmother, stating, “In Akan Customary Law, it is only the King who has the power to install and destool a Queenmother. Nobody has that power save the King.”
He also offered prayers for the swift recovery of Nana Akua Asantewaa III, expressing hope that she would soon resume her leadership role. Meanwhile, the police have appealed for calm and assured the public of a thorough investigation into the incident.
