The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has destooled Nana Saforo Koto, the Chief of Bekwai-Abodom.

This move came as a result of Nana Koto’s inability to adequately defend himself against a series of charges that had been brought against him, which were quite serious in nature.

The charges, totalling 20 in number, were brought forward by concerned residents within the Bekwai-Abodom community. These charges ranged from the sale of lands to illegal mining operators, commonly known as “galamseyers,” which has caused severe environmental damage to water bodies, to the improper and indiscriminate sale of lands.

Additionally, Nana Koto was accused of neglecting his responsibilities within the community, including prolonged absences, and failing to uphold important traditional rituals within the stool house.

During the course of the proceedings, Nana Koto faced the tribunal but struggled to adequately address the charges levelled against him. He reportedly failed to provide satisfactory responses to the allegations during the committee’s hearings.

The gravity of the situation was further underscored by the Divisional Chiefs who took turns expressing their disappointment and dismay at Nana Koto’s disregard for his traditional duties and the welfare of the community. Their scathing criticism centred on his neglect of the customary rites that are essential to upholding the integrity of his position.

Following careful consideration of the evidence and arguments presented, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II rendered his verdict on August 10, 2023, at the Manhyia Palace. The ruling found Nana Saforo Koto guilty on all counts, which ultimately led to his destoolment.

The consequences of Nana Koto’s actions did not stop with his own destoolment. The Abontendomhene, who was responsible for guiding and advising the Chief, also faced destoolment for failing to steer Nana Koto in the right direction.