A major rupture has emerged within the Akyem traditional area following Odauman’s formal withdrawal from the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, effectively ending a relationship that has endured for more than 300 years.
The decision was announced on April 12, 2026, by the Ofosu-Pema Royal Family at Odau Fie in Akyem Etwereso, marking a significant turning point in a long-standing dispute between the Okyenhene and the Odauhene, Odeneho Ofosu Kwabi Ayebiahwe.
In its declaration, the family stated that Odauman—comprising 12 towns, 10 palanquin towns and 58 villages, and anchored by the twin stools of Akyem Etwereso and Akyem Osenase—will no longer recognise the authority of the Okyenhene or operate under the structures of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council.
The standoff stems from a series of decisions taken at the Ofori Panin Fie in Kyebi, which the family has strongly opposed. These include barring the Odauhene from accessing the Okyenhene’s palace, stripping him of the title “Daasebre”, and moves to reassign towns under his jurisdiction to other traditional authorities.
Describing the actions as a break from long-established custom, the Ofosu-Pema Royal Family maintained that its historic relationship with Akyem Abuakwa was never one of subordination, but rather built on cooperation and mutual recognition.
Central to the dispute is disagreement over the enstoolment of a regent for the Osenase stool. The family insists the individual endorsed by the Okyenhene lacks royal lineage and is therefore ineligible, further alleging that arbitration processes were undermined after proceedings were adjourned indefinitely but later concluded without notice.
The tensions have also been compounded by an alleged attack on the Odauhene during a visit to Osenase—an incident the family says remains unresolved despite being reported to authorities.
Rejecting claims of territorial control by the Okyenhene, the family argued that Odauman predates its alliance with Akyem Abuakwa and was not brought under its authority through conquest. It maintained that ownership of its lands and settlements is historically established and cannot be altered by any other traditional power.
The declaration further states that Odauman will henceforth function independently in all traditional matters, with the Odauhene no longer recognising any higher authority and retaining the title “Odeneho” as a symbol of full autonomy.
Plans are also underway to pursue formal recognition for a separate traditional council to administer its affairs.
The development effectively positions Odauman as what the family describes as a fourth Akyem state—alongside Akyem Abuakwa, Akyem Kotoku and Akyem Bosome—marking one of the most consequential chieftaincy developments in recent years.
