The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Asene Manso Akroso (AMA) Constituency is grappling with internal friction after its Constituency Chairman, Mr. Samson Effah, was dragged before the Akroso Traditional Council over allegations of insulting a revered local queen mother.
The controversy erupted after a WhatsApp status, allegedly posted by Mr. Effah, was deemed to contain offensive remarks targeting Nana Afia Ohenewaa, the Adontehemaa of the Akroso Traditional Area. Nana Ohenewaa, a former NPP executive and sister to veteran party figure Alex Agyei, is a respected figure both within the traditional hierarchy and the party’s grassroots.
The Akroso Traditional Council, led by the Akrosohene, Nana Kwabena Ofori II, summoned Mr. Effah on Sunday to demand an explanation and express their anger over what they described as a direct attack on the dignity of the traditional authority.
The alleged comments, though not made public, were labeled by the Council as “immature and disrespectful,” with the potential to sow division and undermine the long-standing relationship between the party and the traditional leadership.
Mr. Effah, however, denied authoring the offensive post and challenged the Council to produce evidence. His stance sparked palpable tension during the meeting, prompting intervention from his home chief, who offered an apology on Effah’s behalf to calm the situation.
Though the apology was accepted, the Council did not mince words in warning the NPP Chairman against further misconduct. “Respect for traditional authority is non-negotiable,” Nana Ofori II emphasized.
Within party circles, the incident has ignited concern over Mr. Effah’s leadership style. Some party members described his recent actions as part of a disturbing pattern of divisive behaviour that could harm the NPP’s standing in the constituency.
“This isn’t just a traditional issue; it’s political,” said a senior party insider. “Disrespecting someone of Nana Afia Ohenewaa’s stature alienates both the base and the community. We can’t afford that heading into an election.”
The NPP’s national leadership has yet to comment publicly on the matter, but sources suggest the party is monitoring the fallout closely. As the dust settles, questions remain about whether Mr. Effah’s leadership in the constituency can survive the growing backlash.
