Okuapehemaa questions purported enstoolment of Justice Sophia Akuffo as Akuapem Mmrahene

Justice Sophia Akuffo's purported enstoolment is questioned by the Office of the Okuapehemaa of the Akuapem Traditional Area. The Okuapehemaa, Nana Afua Nketia Obuo II, together with the Asonahene, Nana Kwasi Omenako II, said they had taken notice of publications announcing the planned enstoolment of Justice Sophia Akuffo on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

The statement alleges the purported enstoolment was initiated by Odehye Kwadwo Kesse, whose legitimacy as Okuapehene remains the subject of unresolved judicial and customary disputes. A judgment delivered on April 30, 2020, by the Judicial Committee of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs outlined customary procedures required for the nomination and installation of an occupant of the Ofori Kuma Stool. The Okuapehemaa's office argued that these procedures were not followed. Contempt proceedings were initiated against Odehye Kwadwo Kesse and another individual at the High Court in Koforidua, and they were convicted and fined GH¢10,000 each. An application filed at the Supreme Court seeking to quash the High Court's decision was dismissed on February 20, 2024.

The Okuapehemaa urged Justice Sophia Akuffo to exercise restraint regarding the purported enstoolment, stating "Nemo dat quod non habet - no one gives what he does not have." The Office stressed that the statement was not intended to undermine the reputation of Justice Sophia Akuffo. The Okuapehemaa's office also called on the media, the general public and stakeholders to take note of the existing judicial pronouncements and the legal implications surrounding the purported enstoolment.