LAND DISPUTE ERUPTS IN ABOUNTEM: AGYA MANU RETRACTS CLAIM OVER STOOL LANDS

LAND DISPUTE ERUPTS IN ABOUNTEM: AGYA MANU RETRACTS CLAIM OVER STOOL LANDS

By Sibo Yamoah

A brewing land dispute has erupted in Abountem, as a resident, Agya Manu, claims ownership of a portion of Abountem stool lands, sparking concerns and tensions in the community. According to Agya Manu, he and his late father were granted rights over 153 acres of land following a ruling by His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on December 24, 2010.

Speaking to this reporter, Agya Manu explained that the land in question had long been under contention until the 2010 decision, which he insists was made in his family’s favor. “In the year 2010, on the 24th of December, Otumfuo ruled that the 153 acres of land belonged to my family,” Agya Manu stated. “On January 6th following the ruling, Otumfuo appointed some individuals to inspect the land, and I have all the proper documents to support our ownership.”

Agya Manu further indicated that his family has been actively working on the land, overseeing its use for farming and other developmental projects. “We are only taking care of what is rightfully ours, and we have documents to back it,” he added confidently.

However, the interview took a dramatic turn when this reporter questioned Agya Manu about the sensitive nature of stool lands, highlighting that anyone claiming stool land might be indirectly positioning themselves as a chief—an action that could bring serious repercussions from traditional leaders, especially the Apagyahene.

Upon realizing the implications of his statements, Agya Manu quickly withdrew his earlier remarks. “Oh, no, I didn’t mean it like that,” he said. “I wasn’t trying to say that the land belongs to me as stool land. Please, I apologize. I will speak to my people and ask them to hold on with any ongoing work until we clarify everything properly.”

Stool lands in Asanteman are deeply tied to the chieftaincy institution, and improper claims can lead to legal battles, destoolment processes, and in some cases, criminal charges.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes are now on the traditional council and the stool elders of Abountem, who are expected to step in to resolve the matter and maintain peace.

This is an ongoing story, and further updates will be provided as new information comes up