Tensions are escalating in Offinso as the Offinso Youth Association accuses the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs of intentionally stalling a critical chieftaincy case.
The dispute, involving the legitimacy of the current Offinso chief, has been marked by repeated adjournments and legal delays, leaving the local youth feeling increasingly frustrated. The group has now vowed to take action if the Regional House of Chiefs continues to neglect its responsibilities.
The case at the heart of the controversy revolves around the legitimacy of the current Offinso chief, who was appointed by the Manhyia Palace. The Ashirem royal family, however, denies his legitimacy, claiming he is not a rightful member of their lineage.
In response, they filed a suit accusing him of impersonation. Despite the legal gravity of the matter, the youth association argues that the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs has failed to resolve the issue, citing continuous delays in hearings.
“The repeated adjournments are deliberate and aimed at delaying justice,” said Berima Yaw Nkansah, leader of the Offinso Youth Association. “Committee members, including Berima Tweneboa Kodua and Berima Amankwah Adunan, have refused to act, letting peace in Offinso deteriorate. The situation cannot continue like this.”
The youth association has raised concerns that external influences, particularly from Manhyia, might be contributing to the delay. Nkansah added, “We’re being left in limbo, and it’s clear that someone is pulling the strings behind the scenes to prevent a fair resolution. The youth of Offinso won’t tolerate this any longer.”
With growing tensions, the Offinso Youth Association has urgently called on the government to intervene and expedite the case. They fear that continued delays could lead to unrest similar to that seen in other regions, such as Bawkaw and Sampa, where chieftaincy disputes have turned violent.
“We will not stand by if justice continues to be delayed,” Nkansah warned.
This conflict is closely tied to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, whose authority is key in resolving chieftaincy disputes within the Ashanti region. Earlier, Otumfuo destooled Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko, the Offinso queen mother, following her mishandling of the stool’s nomination process.
While the new chief, Nana Amoako Poku, was installed, the chieftaincy dispute continues to divide the community, with the youth determined to see justice done.
As the situation remains tense, the youth of Offinso are demanding immediate action to prevent further delays. The question now is whether the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs will step up to address the growing crisis before it erupts into broader unrest.
