By Issah Olegor
A deepening chieftaincy dispute in Adamorobe, in the Eastern Region, has triggered rising tensions and uncertainty, following conflicting claims over the rightful occupant of the town’s traditional stool—one of which involves popular Ghanaian actor Mikki Osei Berko also known as Master Richard.
The dispute has drawn legal, traditional, and security attention after the Ghana Police Service, through the Inspector General of Police, secured a court order from the High Court in Koforidua restraining the installation and outdooring of two individuals, including Mikki Osei Berko and another claimant, Douglas Amoako Danquah.
The order, issued on April 24, 2026, barred any such ceremonies scheduled for April 27 and May 4, citing the need to maintain public order and safety.
The directive, signed under the authority of the High Court, was to remain in force for ten days.
Despite the restraining order, tensions have intensified within the community, with a faction of elders from the Kwaakwa Asiampong Asakyire Royal Family recognized as the legitimate custodians of the Adamorobe stool insisting that due customary processes had already been followed in the installation of Mikki Osei Berko, who is known traditionally as Nana Osei Boakye Yiadom II.
According to the elders, his enthronement has also received recognition from Nana Otubour Djan Kwasi I, reinforcing their position that the stool is not vacant.
However, a rival claimant, Douglas Amoako Danquah has further complicated the matter.
The elders contend that Danquah has no legitimate lineage or customary basis to occupy the stool, alleging that he is planning a parallel installation ceremony in defiance of the court order.
They referenced a prior meeting held on November 3, 2025, at the Aburi Palace, where Danquah is said to have admitted before traditional authorities and local officials that he was not a chief and had no rightful claim.
The situation has been further inflamed by allegations of intimidation and security concerns. Community leaders claim there are indications of support for the rival faction from some elements within the Regional Police Command, as well as reports of armed individuals posing as national security operatives allegedly harassing residents.
These claims, though unverified, have heightened fears of a potential breakdown in law and order.
In response to the escalating situation, the elders have issued an urgent appeal to key state institutions including the Inspector General of Police, the Criminal Investigation Department, National Security, and the Ministries responsible for Interior and Defence to intervene and enforce the court order.
They warn that failure to act decisively could endanger lives and destabilise the community.
