By Samuel Yaokumah
Akropong-Akuapem (E/R), May 22, GNA – Former Chief Justice Sophia A.B. Akuffo has been enstooled as Mmrahene of Akuapem at a grand durbar held during the 5th Awukudae celebration at Akropong-Akuapem.
The enstoolment, performed in accordance with Akuapem custom and tradition, saw the former Chief Justice assume the stool name Nana Abena Boafoa Akuffo.
The ceremony attracted traditional rulers and queen mothers from across the country, members of the diaspora and staff of the Judicial Service, who gathered to honour the newly enstooled chief.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief Justice and the Judicial Service, Justice Frederick Arnold W.A. Nawurah congratulated Nana Abena Boafoa Akuffo on the honour bestowed on her by the Okuapehene and the people of Akuapem.
He said her wisdom, integrity, experience and commitment to national service would strengthen the traditional authority and cultural heritage of Akuapemman.
Justice Nawurah noted that Lady Justice Akuffo had served Ghana with distinction on the bench and remained a source of inspiration, dignity and intellectual leadership within the judiciary and beyond.
“Today, Akuapem has honoured one of Ghana’s daughters,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the Okuapehene, the Krontihene of Akuapem, Osahene Boafo Ansah, said the Okuapehene was delighted by the enstoolment of “such a worthy personality” as Mmrahene of Akuapemman.
He explained that the attire worn by Nana Akuffo symbolised key traditional values and attributes.
According to him, the kente cloth represented beauty, peace and royal splendour, while the batakari, also known as fugu, symbolised bravery and strength in times of adversity.
He added that the toga and its design reflected wisdom, intelligence and the spider’s ability to solve problems and unite people.
The Nifahene of Akuapem and Chief of Adukrom, Osuodugya Otutu Ababio V, described the enstoolment as divinely ordained and commended the Akuffo family for accepting the title.
He urged Nana Abena Boafoa Akuffo to remain resolute, fair and firm in carrying out her new responsibilities.
He further cautioned that she could encounter individuals seeking to frustrate her efforts and prayed for guidance and protection from the gods and ancestors.
Some participants at the event told the Ghana News Agency that they hoped the enstoolment of the former Chief Justice would help restore peace and unity in Okuapemman.
Others described the recognition as a source of inspiration and urged other ethnic groups to honour distinguished sons and daughters of their communities.
GNA
Edited by D. I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reported by Samuel Yaokumah
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