The recent inauguration of the Koforidua Youth Resource Center, colloquially known as the Sports Stadium, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, by President Akugo Adding, has unexpectedly become the epicenter of a heated land ownership debate.
Statements from a chief linguist representing the New Juaben traditional area have added fuel to the fire, challenging the established historical narrative of the New Juaben settler community.
The linguist’s assertion that the land, situated at Adweso (Akuapem), was leased to the government by the New Juaben traditional council has set off a contentious discourse about the rightful ownership of the territory.
In a statement from the palace of Chief of Adweso, Nana Tete Bempong, issued on December 29, 2023, it was emphasized that, contrary to the prevailing “Akwantu kese” narrative,
claim by the liquist who poured the libation is not factual.
The statement emphasized that the territory falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Akuapem traditional authority.
This revelation has ignited a broader conversation about the New Juaben migrants’ settlement, hinting at a potential disconnect with the traditional administration or land title adjudication of Adweso.
The statement expressed regret that the inauguration ceremony missed an opportunity to express gratitude and acknowledge the host communities, particularly Akuapem, that the New Juaben settlers encountered during the historically significant Great Escape.
Adding another layer to the ongoing debate, the Adweso traditional council has proposed renaming the stadium after the illustrious son of Akuapem, C.K. Gyamfi.
This suggestion is rooted in the desire to honor Gyamfi’s substantial contributions to sports in Ghana.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
