The Overlord of Akyem Abuakwa, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has called on state security agencies to uphold and enforce decisions issued by the House of Chiefs on traditional leadership matters, emphasizing that this is essential for resolving the growing number of chieftaincy disputes in the Eastern Region.
He made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the Eastern Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Francis Annor Dompreh, on Wednesday, December 3, at the Ofori Panin Fie in Kyebi, where discussions focused on the escalating tensions surrounding chieftaincy in Akyem.
Osagyefo Ofori Panin cautioned that increasing interference by politicians and external influences in traditional governance is eroding the authority and dignity of chiefs.
“The infiltration of politicians and external forces into chieftaincy matters is troubling. When security agencies interfere in such issues, it weakens our authority and makes the institution appear unserious. Security agencies must respect and enforce the decisions of the House of Chiefs,” he stated.
Turning to the issue of illegal mining (galamsey), the Okyehene recounted his longstanding fight against the practice, noting that the challenge has become harder for both traditional leaders and the government to address.
He revealed that he once faced hostility from illegal miners:
“Galamseyers threw stones at my car when I took steps to stop the destruction of our lands and water bodies. These non-indigenes acted with impunity. When I reported them, I was falsely accused of engaging in galamsey myself—simply because I opposed it. It even affected my international projects.”
He stressed his commitment to protecting Akyem lands, adding:
“Why would I engage in galamsey when I can undertake proper, regulated mining? All lands in Akyem belong to me. No chief—and not even the government—can stop me from doing proper mining if I choose to.”
Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Annor Dompreh described the discussion as productive and expressed confidence that with the Okyehene’s insight and leadership, issues such as galamsey, sand winning, land-guard activities, conflicts, and the recent surge in murder cases will be addressed more effectively.
