Atweabanso: Awulae Agyefi Kwame II, the Paramount Chief of the Nsein Traditional Area, has appealed to the government to intervene in the ongoing land ownership dispute between the Nsein Traditional Council and the Lower Axim Traditional Council. The conflict centers around the land currently under the jurisdiction of Awulae Attibrukusu II, the Paramount Chief of the Lower Axim Traditional Area.
According to Ghana News Agency, Awulae Agyefi Kwame II has accused the Nsein Traditional Council of redefining the boundaries to include Lower Town Axim and the Nsein Traditional Area within their jurisdiction. Awulae Attibrukusu III has been given a three-month ultimatum to vacate the land. The appeal was made to President John Dramani Mahama through Mr. Herbert Kuah Dickson, the Municipal Chief Executive of the Nzema-East Municipality, during the conclusion of the Transition Council Heritage Week at Atweabanso, a site of historical significance for the community.
Awulae Agyefi Kwame II, who also serves as the President of the Nsein Traditional Council, urged the President to establish a special committee to investigate the matter thoroughly. He warned that failure to resolve the issue by July 1, 2026, could lead to a violent conflict between the two councils. Awulae Agyefi Kwame II further stated that if Awulae Attibrukusu III chooses to remain in the Lower Axim Traditional Area, he will be prohibited from participating in certain cultural practices, including the Kundum festival and other traditional ceremonies.
In response, Awulae Attibrukusu III held a press conference to assert his longstanding authority over the Lower Axim Traditional Area, where he has reigned for 38 years. Surrounded by members of his council in red attire, symbolizing defiance, he emphasized that previous disputes over land ownership had been settled during the regime of Jerry John Rawlings. He expressed bewilderment at the resurgence of this issue, highlighting the peaceful coexistence between the people of Lower Axim and Nsein over the years.
Awulae Attibrukusu III called on the government to address the demands of the Omanhene of Nsein, reiterating the community's desire for peace and harmony.