Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed his profound gratitude to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his longstanding relationship, invaluable contribution and support during his presidency, particularly in helping to restore peace in Dagbon.
He conveyed this message of appreciation during a courtesy call paid to him by the Asantehene, who was accompanied by a delegation of chiefs and noblemen, at his residence in Nima.
Akufo-Addo recalled the Asantehene’s pivotal role as Chairman of the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, which included the Yagbonwura and the Nayiri, that worked to resolve the long-standing Dagbon chieftaincy conflict.
“I extended to him my deepest appreciation for his guidance and support throughout my time as President. Chief among his contributions was his role as Chairman of the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, which included the Yagbonwura and the Nayiri, in facilitating the peace process in Dagbon,” he stated.
The Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, which had lingered for years between the two royal gates, Andani and Abudu, was finally settled through the instrumental mediation of the Asantehene. A major milestone in this process was a crucial meeting held on November 16, 2018.
Akufo-Addo also praised the longstanding relationship he shares with the Asantehene, describing it as a bond that has deepened over the years.
“The Otumfuo and I have built a strong relationship of friendship and cooperation since our early years. These ties have only grown stronger with time. As always, I wish him and Asanteman well in all their endeavours,” he added.
The courtesy call came a day after President John Mahama also acknowledged the Asantehene’s instrumental role in persuading him to accept the late President John Evans Atta Mills’ decision to make him his running mate