The Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery has eulogized the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah for his contributions to the propagation of the gospel and the development of mankind.

At a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of Dr. Danquah’s passing, the Chairman of the Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery, Rev. Professor Seth Asare Danso, eulogized Dr. J. B. Danquah for his dedication, service to humanity, and efforts in spreading the gospel in Akyem Abuakwa.

Professor Seth Asare Danso mentioned that, Dr. J B Danquah's contribution to the consolidation of Okyeman, Akan cultural heritage, the independence struggle of our country, the defense of democracy and the struggle against authoritarianism and arbitrariness has a unique place in the history of Ghana.

ABOUT J B DANQUAH:

The whole nation stood in grief and shock on the morning of February 4, 1965 when the news of the untimely demise of J B Danquah at the Nsawam medium security prison broke.

He had been detained on the orders of the Kwame Nkrumah-led Convention Peoples Party (CPP), under untold circumstances.

Dr. J. B. Danquah considered himself a lifelong worthy servant of the Chieftaincy institution and often described Nanamon as natural and anointed rulers.

He was with Nananom at the Conference of Paramount Chiefs of the Eastern Province of the Gold Coast from 1916 to 1921, at the early age of 21, serving as State Secretary of Akyem Abuakwa, where the foundations were laid for the establishment of the Joint Provincial Council, which later led to the formulation of the Native Administration Ordinance of 1927.

He was part of several delegations with Nananom to the Colonial Office in England. Notably, the 1934 delegation successfully persuaded the Colonial Administration to enlarge the Legislative Council and allow persons other than chiefs to be included as members.

The impact J. B. Danquah made on the understanding and preservation of Akan culture, heritage, and tradition can be seen in his intellectual analysis of the customary institutions of the Akan people in his celebrated work, “Akan Laws and Customs – and the Akyem Abuakwa Constitution”, published in London in 1928.

In recognition and appreciation of his sacrifices, Okyeman created the Twafo stool and enstooled him as Okyeman Twafohene.

At his enstoolment ceremony, the Okyeman Twafohene, Okatakyie Ababio Boakye Danquah, promised to elevate the legacy of his predecessor, Dr. J. B. Danquah, and ensure that his contributions remain significant in history.

He stated that J. B. Danquah has secured his place in history as the iconic chronicler and codifier of not only Akyem Abuakwa but also Akan custom, tradition, and history.

Okatakyie Boakye Danquah emphasized the need to look toward a brighter future, guided by a vision of hope, tolerance, and reverence for the opinions, lives, and dignity of all persons, regardless of their political views.

He described J. B. Danquah as the epitome and embodiment of respect for human dignity, the culture and traditions of all peoples, and a champion of freedom for all men.

The District Pastor of the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church at Kyebi, Rev. Atiemo Aye, indicated that the Presbyterian Church will continue to honor the memory of Dr. J. B. Danquah.

Some notable chiefs who graced the ceremony included the Chief of Adedientem, Barima Ofori Asante, Kyebi Kyedomhene, Barima Bosompem, Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Fori Amantoamiensahene, the Akyem Abuakwa State Secretary, D. M. Ofori-Atta, Manwerehene of Adedientem, Barfour Boamah Darko, as well as children and grandchildren of J. B. Danquah, family members, and other distinguished guests.