The Nii Adjin-We Family of Katamanso has issued a detailed manifesto outlining the historical and customary foundations of their family’s sovereignty, leadership succession, and challenges in recent years, particularly regarding political interference in chieftaincy matters.
The manifesto, signed by Seth Otu Okley (Salami), the Head of the Family, asserts that the Nii Adjin-We Family holds the Absolute Allodial Title to the lands of Katamanso, which were originally settled over 200 years ago by twin brothers, Akwetey and Akuetteh.
The document highlights the principle of jurisdictional autonomy, asserting the family’s exclusive decision-making authority in matters concerning Katamanso, separate from the Nungua Clan of their ancestry.
The family’s leadership succession follows the principle of generational seniority, with uncles of the senior generation holding precedence over sons or nephews. Seth Otu Okley (Salami) is identified as the legitimate Head of Family.
The manifesto also addresses historical challenges, including the 1995 usurpation of leadership by Abraham Otu Laryea, who self-appointed himself as Regent and later Chief, bypassing traditional protocols.
Despite political suppression and interference, the family’s rightful head, Joshua Kwei, was reinstated by the High Court in a landmark decision affirming the family’s customary protocols.
The document further condemns political interference during the period of 2015-2017, particularly the appointment of Joseph Nii Laryea Afotey-Agbo as “Caretaker,” which violated Ghana’s 1992 Constitution separating political office from chieftaincy roles.
The family has formally declared that any installation of a new Chief, including the recent 2024 installation of Joseph Nii Laryea Afotey-Agbo, is null and void.
They vow not to recognize a new Chief until the rightful status of Nii Otu Akwetey IX is resolved through customary channels.
For further inquiries, the family has provided contact details for formal verification and clarification.
