Story by George Yawson Vineh
The heads of the Hiowe Gblaka Family of Doyumu in the Greater Accra Region have strongly rejected what they describe as the illegal enstoolment of a new chief, Tetteh Olovi as Hiowe Gblaka Matse, insisting that the process did not follow the accepted customary and traditional procedures of the family and the area.
According to the family heads, the purported installation was carried out without the consent and approval of the recognized kingmakers and principal elders, making the enstoolment null and void. They argued that no individual can legitimately ascend to a traditional stool without adherence to laid down customs, consultation with the appropriate family heads, and endorsement by the rightful traditional authorities.
Addressing a press conference on Friday May 8, 2026, the family accused some individuals of attempting to create confusion and instability within the traditional area through what they termed an unlawful process. They cautioned the public, state institutions, and traditional councils against recognizing Nene Okle Borseh Aferdi IX as a legitimate chief until all customary and legal issues surrounding the matter are resolved.
The family further stressed that chieftaincy matters must be handled with respect for tradition, due process, and the rule of law to preserve peace and unity in the community. They indicated that steps are being taken to challenge the alleged enstoolment through the appropriate customary and legal channels.
According to them, Matthew Narkertey, who once served as the family secretary, was suspended indefinitely alongside others including Emmanuel Narh Asumah, former linguist, Asafoatse Miihuubida IV of Hiowe Gblaka Makpimnya, and Asafoatse Akorkora Gbengor IV of Gbetesi Hiowe Gblaka. The suspension was effected by the late King Nene Lanimo Okle-Borseh VIII. The family noted that the king’s passing has not yet been made public in line with Dangme custom, as certain traditional rites remain outstanding.
The statement also cited a High Court judgement, Suit No. NHC.2/GAR/93, which the family says excludes Apetechi from Hiowe, questioning why persons from Apetechi Sordji are involved in the Hiowe Divisional Council.
“We the family heads of the Hiowe Gblaka Family/Stool have distanced ourselves from the illegality committed by these disgruntled persons led by Matthew Narkertey and Ex-Okyeame Narh Asumah,” the statement read. “They do not have the capacity per Seh and Dangme customs and traditions to elect or appoint kings, chiefs, or queens.”
The family heads said they have approved Nene Lanimo Okle Borseh Aferdi Katamanso Yilagbeye IX* as the rightful stool occupant. They have also approved the replacement of Asafoatse Miihuubida IV, who they say has been working against the stool’s interests since his suspension in 2018 and is currently indisposed.
The family further alleged that Matthew Narkertey and others assaulted the late King Nene Lanimo Okle Borseh VIII, an act they described as an abomination that may have contributed spiritually to his death. They said the matter is pending before the Magistrate Court in Dodowa.
The family heads warned the so-called Hiowe Divisional Council against attempting to have the purported enstoolment approved and gazetted by the Shai Traditional Council.
The development adds to ongoing tensions surrounding chieftaincy and land-related disputes involving the Hiowe Gblaka Family and some traditional authorities in the Greater Accra Region. In recent months, the family has publicly defended its historical claims over disputed lands and called for disagreements to be settled in court rather than through intimidation or unilateral actions.