The king of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, paid his last respects to Oheneba Adusei Poku, the Akyempimhene, on Monday, November 18, 2024.
In a sombre ceremony rich with Ashanti heritage and culture, the Asantehene arrived at the Adum Palace of Nana Adusei, where his body was laid in state. Draped in his ‘Atinka Ntoma,’ symbolizing his pain at losing a royal and close confidant, and wearing his ‘nsɛbɛ kyɛ’ (hat), Otumfuo performed his final ritual beside the mortal remains of the late Oheneba Adusei, which lay on a golden bed.
Bearing the “Mponponsuo” (sword) in one hand and the “tu tia” (a gun) in the other, with the “kum abrempong” around his neck, the Asantehene danced to the vibrant rhythm of “Akantam” from the fontomfrom drums while mouthing his parting words.
The funeral attracted prominent dignitaries, including the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo; former President John Agyekum Kufuor; and other government officials.
Oheneba Adusei Poku’s interment is scheduled for tonight, concluding the elaborate funeral rites that have underscored the cultural and historical significance of his role within Asanteman.
The late Akyempimhene was the son of the 15th Asantehene, Otumfuo Opoku Ware II. He was the eldest of five children and the only male child born to Otumfuo Opoku Ware II.
