Ohenenana Owoabrempong Akua Afriyie, a renowned queen mother in the Ashanti kingdom, has responded to Agoo TV journalist Afia Pokua’s comments about Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, which have been widely perceived as defamatory.
She firmly believes that the journalist’s remarks about the Asantehene reflect a lack of sense and mental stability.
Recently, Afia Pokua, a guest on Onua TV’s Bribi Gye Gye Wo show, criticised the Asantehene for his perceived silence amid ongoing conflicts involving his subjects and other tribes, including the Bonos.
On the show hosted by Mona Gucci, Pokua expressed frustration over what she sees as Ashanti proving superiority over other tribes and the Asantehene’s inaction regarding these issues.
Her statements have since sparked outrage, particularly among Ashantis, who have vocally condemned her remarks.
Responding to this, the Owoabrempong has also expressed strong disapproval, asserting that Afia Pokua’s comments prove that she isn’t mentally sound and also reflects a lack of proper upbringing.
“When you listen to her carefully, you realise she has a mental problem. If you don’t have mental issues, you wouldn’t say such things. She claimed she was a Kwahu and wouldn’t dare speak poorly about her own chief, yet she could talk about a whole Ashanti king. She isn’t sensible.”
She emphasised, “We don’t have issues with Kwahu, so I don’t want to involve their king in this. We don’t want her type in Asanteman. Her upbringing has given her the audacity to speak like this, and her parents should bow their heads in shame.”
Owoabrempong also lamented the constant criticism Ashantis faced from other tribes due to their dignified demeanour and respect for their king.
“He is our king, and if we choose to honour him, that’s our business. Even she would wish to be an Ashanti,” she added.
Nana Hemaa Akua Afriyie concluded by warning that Afia Pokua should be prepared to face the consequences of her actions, “You’ll finish the fight you’ve started, and let me tell you, you can’t withstand it.”
Apology
Meanwhile, Afia Pokua has apologised to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II over her conduct.
In a statement shared on social media, the Agoo TV journalist expressed regret for her comments, acknowledging that they were out of order.
“I unreservedly and unconditionally apologize to His Royal Majesty the Asantehene and, by extension, the Asanteman Council for my distasteful remarks made on the ‘Biribi Gyegye Wo’ show aired on Saturday, 14th September 2024 on Onua TV,” parts of her comments on Facebook captured.
She also acknowledged that her comments were damaging to Otumfuo’s esteemed reputation, adding that she has learned a lot from the situation.
EB/MA