After issuing a prior warning, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the overlord of the Ashanti Kingdom, has dethroned the Chief of Kwapra in the Ashanti Region, Baffour Adugyemfuo Kumani.
The directive for Baffour Adugyemfuo Kumani’s removal was proclaimed at the Manhyia Palace on Monday, December 11, 2023, during a session of the Asantemen Traditional Council.
In October, the Asantehene summoned Kwaprahene, citing threats to terminate Baffour Adugyemfuo Kumani’s reign due to allegations of engaging in the double sale of lands and violating the Great Ashanti Oath (Ntamkese).
“Kwaprahene knows why I’m looking for him. He knows I am looking for him because of the land issues. That’s why he is dodging me with the excuse of sickness. And he thinks he is smarter than me,” the Asantehene declared.
He stressed, “I won’t take any excuse from him. When he was young, he sold my land without bringing me my money. I forgave him, and you see the issue has returned to me,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II recalled.
The Asantehene also criticized the kingmakers of Kwapra for not offering Baffour Adugyemfuo Kumani sound advice. “And you, the elders, I have always cautioned you against his excesses and that you should caution him to change his ways,” he reprimanded.
Reports suggest that Baffour Adugyemfuo Kumani failed to respond to Asantehene’s summons.
While instructing rituals for Kwaprahene’s removal, Otumfuo further decreed the destoolment of several sub-chiefs to Kwaprahene, citing their failure to provide wise counsel to the chief.
The Asantehene also urged individuals with land issues in Kwapra to bring their concerns before him, assuring resolution for any such matters.