The Ekuona Abusua of Paakoso has removed its family head, Mr. Victor Kofi Owusu, from his position as Abusuapayin following months of internal tension and unresolved grievances within the clan.
In a statement issued on March 12, 2026, elders and representatives of the Ekuona lineage announced that the decision was formally carried out at 11:55 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, after what they described as extensive consultations and unsuccessful attempts to address the matter through customary dialogue.
The Ekuona Abusua represents family communities across several towns including Offinso, Ekuo, Paakoso, Awɛnya, Kyekyebiase, Ohemaa, Diida, Agona, Sunyani, Koforidua, Anwiaso and Pɛkyerɛkyɛ.
According to the elders, the former Abusuapanin had been invited on four separate occasions to participate in family deliberations over issues affecting the clan’s unity and reputation. They say he declined each invitation and allegedly directed insults and derogatory remarks at family elders, actions the family says undermined the authority and dignity of the Abusua.
Citing longstanding customs and the authority vested in the family structure, the elders said the decision to destool him was necessary to restore discipline and unity within the clan.
“For several months, the Ekuona Abusua has endured unprecedented humiliation, internal distress, and public embarrassment under the leadership of the now-destooled Abusuapanin,” the statement said.
The family further indicated that Mr. Owusu had failed to fulfill his responsibility to safeguard the heritage and interests of the clan, accusing him of allowing external influences to affect internal family matters and weaken the traditional authority of the Abusua.
One of the most sensitive issues referenced by the elders relates to matters surrounding the late Ghanaian highlife legend Daddy Lumba, known in private life as Charles Kwadwo Fosuh. The family said the handling of issues connected to the late musician had raised concerns among relatives and the public about whether proper respect had been maintained for both the deceased and the family.
The statement also highlighted concerns about the management of certain family properties and resources, saying adequate accountability had not been provided.
The Ekuona Abusua stressed that Mr. Owusu no longer has any authority to represent the Paakoso Clan or the Ekuona family in any official or customary capacity.
As a result, the family cautioned individuals and institutions against conducting any form of business or negotiations with him on matters relating to the clan or the estate of the late Daddy Lumba.
The elders warned that anyone who chooses to deal with the former Abusuapanin in the name of the family does so at their own risk and that the Abusua will not recognise or honour such engagements.
They added that people who knowingly assist him in presenting himself as a representative of the family could face legal action as well as traditional sanctions.
Despite the controversy, the Ekuona Abusua says steps are already being taken to install a new Abusuapanin who will lead the clan and help restore calm within the family.
The elders say the next leader is expected to embody integrity, wisdom and accountability while working to rebuild trust and unity among members of the clan.
They also appealed to supporters and admirers of Daddy Lumba to remain calm as the family navigates the transition.
“The storm is gradually subsiding,” the statement noted, adding that the family is determined to move forward and restore stability within the Abusua.
The elders concluded by thanking the public and supporters for their patience and solidarity during what they described as a difficult period for the Paakoso clan.
Read the statement below.
