The Aowin Traditional Council, in collaboration with the Concerned Citizens of Aowin, has issued a fervent appeal to the Government of Ghana and relevant national institutions to restore law, order, and traditional integrity in the Aowin Traditional Area. Speaking at a press conference held at the Ghana International Press Centre, a representative of the Council outlined a series of disturbing developments that have plunged the community into a state of fear, division, and lawlessness.
Addressing journalists under the theme “Restoring Peace, Law, and Tradition in Aowin,” the Council accused Mr. Thomas Antwi-Agyei, also known as Beyeeman Tano Kwaw Benbuin III, of being at the center of the crisis. The statement alleged that Mr. Antwi-Agyei’s actions, described as unlawful and politically motivated, have led to widespread violence, institutional breakdown, and the erosion of traditional authority.
Brutality and Vigilantism
According to the Council, numerous citizens, including Mr. Koomson and Nana Apena III, have suffered violent assaults allegedly orchestrated by vigilante groups loyal to Mr. Antwi-Agyei. These groups are said to operate as parallel security forces, intimidating residents, extorting funds, and enforcing unauthorized curfews — often under the direct supervision of Mr. Antwi-Agyei himself.
Illegal Mining and Environmental Damage
The Council further accused Mr. Antwi-Agyei of colluding with illegal miners (galamsey operators), granting them access to protected lands in exchange for cash, material goods, and vehicles. This practice, they claimed, has caused significant environmental degradation and threatens the community’s long-term well-being.
Looting and Financial Misappropriation
In a shocking revelation, the Council alleged that Mr. Antwi-Agyei and his followers forcibly entered and looted the Aowin Traditional Council’s office, seizing documents and property. These were reportedly transferred to an unauthorized “Office of the Paramountcy.” Additionally, they claimed that an illegal ADB bank account was created in the name of the Council to divert stool land revenues and community funds for personal use.
Rival Chiefs and Governance Breakdown
The installation of rival chiefs in towns with already gazetted traditional leaders was another key concern. The Council cited multiple instances — including in Boinso, Adum, and Amonie — where such actions have led to confusion, legal disputes, and community unrest.
Disruptions and Atrocities
The press statement also reported incidents of disrupted development meetings, enforced curfews, public cursing rituals targeting state officials, and the murder of four individuals allegedly tied to vigilante activities. The Council noted that while some cases have reached the Attorney General’s office, justice remains delayed.
Forgery and Political Interference
The legitimacy of Mr. Antwi-Agyei’s ascension was also questioned. The Council asserted that his gazetting as Omanhene was based on forged documents (CD Forms 1A and 1B), facilitated with the support of Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, thereby undermining the credibility of the traditional selection process.
Call to Action
In closing, the Council presented a set of urgent demands:
Immediate de-gazetting of Mr. Thomas Antwi-Agyei as Omanhene of Aowin;
Prosecution of all crimes listed in their petition;
Restoration of leadership through the rightful kingmakers;
Disbandment of unauthorized vigilante groups;
Judicial annulment of all illegal acts executed in Mr. Antwi-Agyei’s name.
The Council emphasized that their call was not politically motivated, but a necessary response to the breakdown of peace, justice, and tradition in the Aowin Traditional Area. They called on the media and civil society to support their efforts to protect Ghana’s chieftaincy institution from further erosion.
