By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu
Atorkor (V/R), April 17, GNA – The Atorkor Traditional Area has traced its historical origins and reaffirmed the legitimacy of the Adaku Stool amid ongoing chieftaincy disputes.
In a statement signed by Togbi Dosu Adaku VIII, Dufia of Atorkor and Dosukope, the community’s origins were linked to Dordi Fuga of the Klevie Clan, a son of Ekli of Notsie, during the Ewe migration.
The statement explained that the name “Atorkor” is derived from the Akan phrase “metor makor,” meaning “I buy and leave,” referring to trading activities by Akan merchants who made brief stops in the area due to mosquito prevalence.
Citing historical accounts, including Ewes of West Africa, Volume I by Mamattah, the statement noted that Atorkor was also known as Akporkplorti and served as a strategic trading post between Dahomey (now Benin) and the Volta estuary at Anyanui.
Beyond commerce, Atorkor was described as a key military and settlement base during the Anlo migration, serving as a resting, hunting, and fishing ground for early settlers.
The statement highlighted Atsieku I, a war leader and descendant of Dordi Fuga, who played a key role in land acquisition and military organisation within the Anlo State, later establishing Asadame as a strategic base.
According to the statement, the Adaku Stool was created in 1840 when Atsieku I installed his nephew Amable as Togbi Adaku I, marking the beginning of structured traditional leadership in Atorkor.
It added that over time, the Adaku Stool evolved alongside the Dosu Stool, both later merged into the Dosu Adaku Stool to maintain unity within the royal family.
The statement said the succession of chiefs culminated in the installation of Mensah Godwin Kwashie as Togbi Dosu Adaku VIII on January 18, 2024.
It also addressed disputes involving the Adjorlolo family, alleging attempts to elevate a wealth-based stool (Hoxi) into a chieftaincy position, contrary to tradition.
The statement maintained that historical figures linked to the Adjorlolo lineage were wealthy traders but not chiefs, and therefore their claims to authority remain contested.
It referenced a 1984 High Court ruling that quashed a decision of the Anlo Traditional Council over procedural irregularities, including lack of quorum and denial of fair hearing.
Togbi Dosu Adaku VIII expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the matter by the Anlo Traditional Council’s Judicial Committee, citing concerns over jurisdiction and panel composition.
The statement indicated that the matter should have been referred to the Kome-Shime Traditional Council and said steps were being taken to pursue appropriate legal and customary action.
“We are determined to pursue this matter to its logical conclusion through both legal and customary processes,” it said.
The Atorkor Traditional Authority reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the legacy of the Adaku Stool as a symbol of heritage, unity, and continuity within the Anlo tradition.
GNA
Edited By: Maxwell Awumah/Audrey Dekalu