I Still Remember Your Benevolence- Otumfuo to Akwamumanhene

Many years after Nana Ansa Sasraku, Akwamuhene, showed kindness to Opemsuo Osei Tutu and aided his elevation to Kingship, his reincarnate, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, stands grateful.

At a meeting on September 8, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace with Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, Akwamumanhene, Asantehene did not conceal his gratitude for the benevolence.

His Majesty thanked Akwamu for his training, safe journey, and blessings.

“As great as I am, I owe it to you. I will never be ungrateful. The blessings of Nana Ansa alongside Komfo Anokye have made me who I am…I have not forgotten you after prospering.”

History
Recalling history, Otumfuo shared how the first King of the Asante Kingdom, Opemsuo Osei Tutu, received mentorship in Akwamu at the feet of Nana Ansa Sasraku, the then chief.

In his remarks, His Majesty credited Nana Sasraku for his success.

“His training put me where I sit today. From Denkyira, I settled in Akwamu with Nana Ansa Sasraku. He hosted me. At the time, Obiri Komfo {Komfo Anokye} had also fallen out with the people of Awukugua, who had petitioned Ansa Sasraku to summon him. The chief took Obiri Komfo in to stay with him. It was there that I met Obiri Komfo.

“He { Obiri Komfo} prophesied that I would be a great King here. It was from that moment that Ansa Sasraku began to mentor me. After some time, messengers were sent to bring me to Kumasi. Led by Adumhene, you {Akwamuhene} sent me away along with 1000 people, including Obiri Komfo, to ensure my safe arrival.”

Inseparable
The further Asantehene acknowledged the inseparability of the two kingdoms.

“You said right when you said we are inseparable. You can’t forsake me, and I can’t forsake you. You helped me make my journey back home. How can I forsake you?”

Consolation
Odeneho travelled alongside a high-powered delegation from Akwamufie in the Eastern Region to Kumasi in the Ashanti region to mourn with Otumfuo over the passing of Nana Konadu Yiadom II, Asantehemaa.

“Take heart,” Odeneho told His Majesty as he expressed his unflinching support for the Asante Kingdom.

“I assure you of my support in these difficult moments. I will not turn my back on you. Whatever has to do with Asante affects us, too.”

In accordance with tradition, he presented bottles of Schnapps, a calabash of cola nuts and a bottle of whisky to the Asantehene.

Story by Hajara Fuseini