Agoo TV journalist Afia Pokua and host of Onua TV’s ‘Bribi Gye Gye Wo,’ Mona Gucci, appeared before Manhyia on Monday September 23, to issue formal apologies for comments perceived as disrespectful to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and the Asanteman.
In a widely circulated video, Afia Pokuaa was observed kneeling before several Asante chiefs.
The controversy began when Afia Pokua criticized the Asantehene for what she viewed as his silence during ongoing conflicts involving his subjects and other tribes, including the Bonos on Mona Gucci’s show.
Afia Pokua had voiced her frustrations regarding what she perceived as the Ashantis’ superiority over other tribes,
Her remarks sparked considerable outrage within the Ashanti community, leading to public condemnation and backlash from community leaders, including sub-chiefs and queen mothers.
Agoo TV journalist Afia Pokua, Onua TV show host Mona Gucci, and the entire Onua TV team have run to Manhyia to apologize for recent comments made on air that many perceived as disrespectful to Otumfour and Asanteman. pic.twitter.com/0wpl2I5T6i
— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) September 23, 2024
Realizing the gravity of their remarks, both journalists turned to social media to express their remorse but recognized the importance of a more direct apology.
In a live broadcast, Mona Gucci admitted her regret for permitting Afia Pokua to air such controversial opinions.
“When my guest came on the show, she made statements that hurt many. We are using this same platform to apologise. To our viewers around the world, including the Ashantis, we are truly sorry. We acknowledge your pain and concerns regarding this issue. I, Monalisa Abigail Sefakor Semeha, plead for your forgiveness. I apologise for everything that has transpired.
“The Asantehene is our father, and Asanteman is our family. Please forgive us,” Mona Gucci said.
Visibly emotional, Afia Pokua offered a lengthy apology to the Asantehene and the entire Ashanti kingdom, both locally and internationally. Dressed in funeral attire and on the verge of tears, she bowed deeply as she conveyed her sincere regret.
She extended her apologies further, recognizing the embarrassment her comments caused the Kwahumanhene and the people of Kwahu.
“I also apologise to the Kwahumanhene. I have brought shame upon you. My words have embarrassed the Chief and the people of Kwahu. Please forgive me; I promise not to let this happen again, “she added.
“I offer a sincere apology to the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. I did not speak well at all, and I accept my wrongs. I am his grandchild, child, and niece. I bow and ask for his forgiveness.
“I also apologise to the entire Asanteman, both home and abroad. Please forgive me. My actions were not intentional; I ask that, despite your anger, you find it in your heart to forgive me. I erred; I goofed,” Afia Pokua said.