Kumasi: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has destooled the Paramount Chief of Kenyase No 2, Nana Kwabena Nsia Ababio, over what the Asantehene described as violations of Asante customs and traditions. The decision was taken during an Asanteman Traditional Council meeting held on July 27, 2026, after the chief appeared before the Council over a number of issues concerning his conduct and administration of the traditional area.
According to Ghana Web, the Asantehene cited several reasons for Nana Kwabena Nsia Ababio's destoolment. One of the primary issues was the unauthorized creation of the Hyiawohene stool. Otumfuo questioned the chief's authority to establish this position, arguing that his role was intrinsically connected to the authority of Kenyasehene. The Asantehene expressed his disapproval, stating, "You were a courtier at Hyiawohemaa's house, so how can you create that position?"
Furthermore, the Asantehene accused Nana Kwabena Nsia Ababio of violating Asante customs and traditions. Despite previous warnings and counseling attempts, the chief's actions were deemed unacceptable. Otumfuo emphasized the importance of adherence to traditional practices and expressed disappointment over the chief's failure to heed repeated warnings.
Another significant factor was the dispute over the destoolment of the Kenyase No 2 Queen Mother, Nana Akua Tinkwamaa. The chief had accused the Queen Mother of gross insubordination, including unauthorized land sales and appointments. However, Nana Akua rejected these accusations and countered by accusing the chief of improperly creating stools and appointments without following traditional procedures.
Additional allegations included interference in traditional governance, with claims that the chief's wife colluded with elders to destool the Queen Mother for personal gain. Land-related disputes also surfaced, involving allegations of unauthorized land sales and improper management of traditional lands.
The Asantehene found that several kingmakers had violated their oaths of office, leading to their destoolment alongside the chief. However, the Kontihene was spared, and some linguists were reinstated. Following the decision, traditional rituals, including the removal of the chief's footwear and the slaughtering of a ram, were performed to complete the destoolment process.
Otumfuo directed the remaining traditional authorities to collaborate with the Queen Mother to oversee the administration of the area until further arrangements are made.