By Frank Kwame Abbor
Matse (V/R), May 24, GNA — The people of Matse on Saturday gave a befitting farewell to their late Paramount Chief, Togbega Osei Tutu VI, in a colourful red-and-black funeral ceremony marked by rich cultural displays, solemn tributes and reflections on his disciplined and humble service.
The ceremony drew traditional rulers, clergy, government officials, family members and mourners from across the Volta Region and beyond. Many described the event as a remarkable display of culture, unity, and reverence for a traditional leader who dedicated his life to peace, justice, and community development.
Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ho, described the late chief as a devoted Christian who remained deeply committed to church activities and community service throughout his life.
“Togbega Osei Tutu VI did not joke with church activities. He served with dedication and counselled people with wisdom and humility. We pray that Jesus Christ reveals Himself to him in heaven just as he revealed himself to his students, subjects and all who came close to him,” the bishop stated.
Tributes delivered on behalf of the Government, the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, the Matse Traditional Council, the Asogli Traditional Area, as well as the children and grandchildren of the late chief, portrayed him as a man of integrity, peace, discipline and selfless leadership.
Born Ben-Nani Deh into the Royal Daku Family of the Agunyagbo Clan, Togbega Osei Tutu VI was the son of Amega Ben Deh, a renowned hunter and farmer, and Mama Mesekyeawe of Matse Dzeve. He was baptised into the Roman Catholic Church as Philip Wilfred Anani Kwasi Daku and was admired from childhood for his calm confidence, humility and strong sense of responsibility.
His educational journey reflected resilience and determination. Financial difficulties interrupted his schooling several times, compelling him to undertake tailoring apprenticeship training in Ho and later in Matse.
However, he benefited from the “Go Back to School” policy introduced by Kwame Nkrumah in 1957, enabling him to continue his education and later pursue teacher training.
The late chief excelled academically and in sports, particularly football and athletics, and became known among his peers for his leadership qualities and warm personality. Beyond education, he devoted himself to the development of the Roman Catholic Church and the Matse community through communal labour, fundraising activities, road development and support for church projects.
“Togbe lived his faith through service. He believed leadership was about sacrifice, discipline and commitment to the welfare of the people,” one tribute noted.
Known for his strong sense of justice, the late chief’s traditional court earned respect for fairness, truth and discipline. He rejected rumours and baseless accusations and consistently encouraged responsible conduct among the youth.
“For those who came before him with hearsay, he would ask firmly, ‘Who is wobe and wobeobe?’ insisting that every claim must be supported by evidence,” a family tribute recalled, drawing admiration from mourners.
Mourners described Togbega Osei Tutu VI as a pillar of peace, discipline and development whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations within Matse and beyond.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Audrey Dekalu