The Okuapemhemaa, Nana Afua Nketiaa Obuo II, has placed an indefinite hold on this year’s Odwira Festival, citing ongoing disputes over the rightful occupant of the Okuapeman stool.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra, the queen mother declared that no Odwira celebration would be permitted in Akropong or any part of Okuapeman until justice was served in the chieftaincy matter.

She warned that anyone who attempted to organise or celebrate the festival will face strong resistance.

Nana Afua Nketiaa Obuo II explained that her decision was backed by the traditional powers vested in her as queen mother, stressing that “there cannot be a festival when the throne itself remains in contention”.

She and the Okoman Mpanyin of Akropong have also raised strong objections to the installation of the current Okuapehene, Osaedeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, also known as Odehye Kwadwo Kesse Antwi.

According to the queen mother, the installation was politically influenced by the previous administration under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, a move she said compromised the integrity of the traditional selection process.

She added that despite a court ruling in their favour, “justice was manipulated,” resulting in years of tension and chaos within the Okuapeman State.

The queen mother has, therefore, given the government a two-week ultimatum to intervene and ensure that the rightful heir ascended the Okuapeman throne to restore peace and order in the area.