The Tepamanhene, Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II, has spoken publicly about the latest developments surrounding the final funeral rites of the late Ghanaian highlife legend, Daddy Lumba.
Speaking on UTV’s United Showbiz with Empress Gifty, he revealed that the rites can only be performed after a traditional hearing is held over the invocation of Otumfuo’s Great Vow (Ntam Kɛseɛ) by one of the musician’s sisters, Ernestina Fosuh.
Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II clarified that once the Ntam Kɛseɛ has been invoked in such a circumstance, the funeral cannot proceed until the matter is heard and settled by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene or by a king he delegates to sit on the case.
He further explained that when someone invokes the Great Vow, especially in a situation where the person seeks to uncover the truth, all parties involved are required to appear before Otumfuo or his appointed representative so the truth can be established.
When asked if the issue could be resolved by the chief of Daddy Lumba’s hometown, the Tepamanhene firmly rejected that possibility, explaining that it is not within the local chief’s jurisdiction once Otumfuo’s vow has been invoked.
He, however, added that if the chief of Lumba’s town petitions Otumfuo and the Asantehene considers it appropriate, he may permit them to settle the matter locally under his authority.
When pressed further about how long such matters usually take, Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II assured that the issue could be resolved fairly quickly once the necessary summons have been issued.
