The Bantama Traditional Council has destooled Nana Asare Bediako II, the Odikro of Kwadaso, following allegations of misconduct, abuse of authority, and insubordination.
The decision, announced after a traditional ceremony at the Kwadaso Palace on Monday, April 13, 2026, was led by Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, head of the Bantama Traditional Council.
Nana Kofi Owusu, Gyasehene to the Bantamahene, conducted the destoolment rites on behalf of the council. In line with custom, a ram was slaughtered to symbolically strip the chief of his authority.
Addressing journalists after the ceremony, Nana Akwasi Abu, the Aduana Abusuapanin of the Royal Family, detailed the charges against the destooled chief.
According to him, Nana Asare Bediako II engaged in multiple infractions, including failure to perform his customary duties to the Royal Family, unauthorised sale of lands, particularly in areas around Sofoline and disregard for summons and directives from the Bantama Traditional Council.
“Although 27 years have elapsed since his enstoolment as Odikro, he has not fulfilled his obligations to the Royal Family,” Nana Akwasi Abu stated.
“In addition, he has disregarded the authority of the Bantamahene, to whom he owes loyalty.”
He further noted that the Bantamahene issued several summons for the Odikro to answer the allegations, but Nana Asare Bediako II failed to comply.
“Therefore, the decision to destool him is justified,” the Abusuapanin added.
Despite the gravity of the decision, sections of the royal family have accepted the council’s ruling, expressing confidence in the traditional dispute resolution process.
Meanwhile, the destoolment has sparked mixed reactions among residents of Kwadaso, with many debating its implications for local leadership, land administration, and customary governance.
The Bantama Traditional Council has not yet indicated whether legal action will follow or if a successor will be named immediately.
