His Majesty Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, King of Akyem Kotoku State, has taken decisive action to address growing tensions over the allocation of stores at Oda Central, Nkwantanum, and Old Premier Markets in Akim Oda. The intervention follows widespread controversy and protests by market women and interest groups regarding perceived inequities in the allocation process.
The Central Market, which was razed by fire in 2021, was recently reconstructed and commissioned by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. However, the allocation of stores at both the Central Market and the Old Premier Market has sparked discontent among former occupants and various stakeholder groups.
In a letter to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Joyce A. Agyeiwaa, the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Council highlighted multiple complaints from previous occupants of the Central Market and objections from other interest groups. The letter further emphasized that Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, who holds the allodial title to Akyem Kotoku lands, and his chiefs were neither consulted nor engaged during the construction of the markets.
“His Gracious Majesty Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV—Allodial Title Holder of all Akyem Kotoku Lands—and His Chiefs were not consulted or engaged prior to and during the construction of the said markets,” the letter stated.
The Traditional Council also expressed dismay over what it described as a lack of communication from the MCE, noting that invitations to discuss the allocation process had been ignored. Similarly, a letter to the Member of Parliament (MP) for Akyem Oda, Hon. Akwasi Acquah, accused him of withholding critical information about the funding sources, costs, completion dates, and allocation plans for the markets. The strained relationship between the MP, the MCE, and the Akyem Kotoku Overlord has further fueled tensions.
In response to the escalating conflict, Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV has issued a directive to halt the allocation of market stores until all relevant stakeholders meet to finalize the allocation modalities. This move aims to promote fairness, transparency, and peace in the community.
The king’s intervention has been welcomed by market women and other interest groups, who view it as an acknowledgment of their concerns. Many have rallied behind His Majesty, expressing hope that the allocation process will now be handled with greater equity and transparency.
“By calling for a halt to the allocation process and engaging stakeholders, we believe our concerns will be addressed, and the allocations will be fair and transparent,” said one market leader.
In the coming week, His Majesty plans to convene a meeting with all stakeholders to develop a comprehensive and equitable allocation plan. The Traditional Council has assured the community that the king’s efforts are aimed at fostering unity and ensuring that the interests of all parties are taken into account.
The allocation of market stores remains a sensitive issue, requiring careful management to avoid further conflicts. His Majesty’s intervention underscores his commitment to peace and fairness in Akim Oda, setting a precedent for resolving disputes through dialogue and collaboration.
