The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has deposed Nana Adutwumwaa Bonin II, the Queen of Denyase Traditional Council in the Ashanti region.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Asanteman Council on October 14, 2024, following accusations that Nana Adutwumwaa Bonin II had breached the sacred great oath of the Ashanti kingdom through treacherous actions.
Despite Nana Adutwumwaa Bonin II appealing for mercy during the proceedings, the majority of council members rejected her plea.
One chief stated, “Nana, we cannot pardon her as the great oath must be upheld at all times, and violating it is unacceptable.”
Goasomanhene expressed concern over the involved oath, making it challenging to advocate on her behalf due to its sacred nature.
Another council member confirmed, “All the chiefs agree that they cannot collaborate with her, hence she must be removed.”
Emphasizing the importance of the great oath and adherence to Asante customs without exception, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II remarked, “To protect the Golden Stool and the entrusted great oath, I must remain faithful to our traditions.”
Reflecting on his obligations, he added, “When I assumed the role of Asantehene, I was reminded that I have no family except for the Golden Stool and the Great Oath.”
While acknowledging his fondness for the queen, he concluded, “Despite my personal feelings, I must abide by tradition when faced with a violation of the great oath.” If I choose to forgive her, whom should I hold accountable if the individual repeats the transgression? It is imperative that we are forthright with others. She bears responsibility as she is a relative.
In the event that she lacks the necessary funds, she may seek assistance, at which point I will provide financial support. However, breaching the sacred oath would disqualify her from occupying the throne.”
The authenticity of Nana Adutwumwaa Bonin II’s royal lineage was called into question when a committee was established to investigate her royal status following a challenge from Achiasebaapanin Nana Akua Afriyie, who invoked the Great Oath to support her claim. Nana Adutwumwaa Bonin II refuted Nana Akua Afriyie’s allegations by invoking the Great Oath herself.
Nana Akua Afriyie denied any kinship with Denyasehemaa, while the latter asserted otherwise. Both parties were instructed to provide their ancestral lineage for committee review. Upon investigation, it was determined that Denyasehemaa was not of royal descent and had no connection to Achiase.
Following the committee’s findings, Otumfuo remarked that Denyasehemaa could have avoided a conflict by pursuing peaceful means. As the investigation has revealed this information, I am compelled to return the stool to its rightful place.”
Denyasehemaa has been fined four rams for falsely invoking the Great Oath during the committee’s meeting.
