The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has destooled Wirempehene Nana Opia Mensah II for desecrating the revered Asante Sacred Oath (Ntamkɛseɛ).

The 90-year-old who has reigned for 54 years was reprimanded for disregarding and disrespecting the sacred tradition.

The chief was also stripped of his title due to his attempts to distort historical truths for personal gain, violating both statutory and traditional laws.

Read also: Otumfuo destools three chiefs over ‘galamsey’

Otumfuo announced the decision on Monday, September 2, 2024, during a meeting of the Kumasi Traditional Council at the Manhyia Palace.

“Nana Opia, you knowingly and deceitfully invoked the Great Oath, despite being fully aware that the stool did not rightfully belong to you. You deliberately challenged its ownership, attempting to exploit your long reign to conceal your illegitimacy.

“However, by misusing the Great Oath for personal gain, you have forfeited your claim to the stool. Your actions have left you no choice but to relinquish the throne,” Otumfuo declared.

In a symbolic gesture, the chief’s traditional slippers were promptly removed, marking his destoolment by custom.

The action follows a comprehensive report presented to the Council on August 15, 2024, which revealed that the Aduana Clan, to which Nana Opia Mensah II belongs, is not the legitimate royal house, but rather the Oyoko Clan holds the rightful claim to the throne.