A renewed chieftaincy dispute in the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area of the Western Region has intensified after the Chief Advisor to the gazetted Omanhene raised serious allegations about how state authorities are handling the matter.
Addressing a press conference at the Tang Palace Hotel in Accra on May 7, 2026, Nana Enu Kpanyinli Annor Amihere, speaking on behalf of Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III, said the traditional ruler is currently in what he described as “security self-exile” abroad due to rising tensions linked to the dispute.
He presented what he described as documented evidence on the status of the chieftaincy issue and referenced President John Dramani Mahama’s December 16, 2025 remarks in Bawku, where the President stressed adherence to constitutional processes and recognition of only duly gazetted chiefs.
According to Nana Amihere, the situation in Eastern Nzema contradicts that principle, warning that inconsistent recognition of leadership risks deepening instability in the area.
He maintained that Mr Berenger Aka Flanton is not a gazetted chief and is currently restrained by an injunction from the Western Region House of Chiefs Judicial Committee, which bars him from acting as Omanhene.
He further alleged that criminal proceedings linked to Mr Flanton’s alleged installation as Awulae Blay IX were discontinued for “want of prosecution,” raising questions about how the matter has been handled by state institutions.
Nana Amihere also claimed there had been an attempted attack on Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III at the Atuabo Royal Palace, describing the location as a “crime scene” that requires urgent security attention.
He alleged that the Western Regional Minister had instructed the Ghana Police Service to provide 24-hour protection for Mr Flanton at the palace, while the gazetted Omanhene remains outside the country.
The statement further accused the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources of taking differing positions depending on official events, alleging that he recognises Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III when the President is present but acknowledges Mr Flanton at traditional gatherings when the President is absent.
Nana Amihere said his office possesses official documents including gazette records, injunction orders, correspondence from kingmakers, and photographic evidence of security presence at the palace, which he intends to make public.
He concluded with a stark description of the situation, saying: “The recognised chief is in exile, the disputed figure is in the palace, and security is protecting the latter. That is the reality on the ground.”
