Ernestina Fosu
The Tepamanhene, Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II, has clarified that the final funeral rites of the late Ghanaian highlife legend, Daddy Lumba, cannot take place as scheduled on 6 December until a traditional matter involving the invocation of Otumfuo’s Ntam Kɛseɛ (Great Oath) is resolved.
Speaking on UTV’s United Showbiz with Empress Gifty, Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II addressed growing public concern following the recent invocation of the Great Oath by one of Daddy Lumba’s sisters, Ernestina Fosu, against the family head.
He explained that the solemn invocation of Ntam Kɛseɛ carries significant traditional and spiritual implications within Asanteman, and must be handled with utmost seriousness.
According to the Tepamanhene, once the Great Oath has been invoked, the issue can only be adjudicated by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, or by a chief he specifically appoints to hear the case. Until this process is complete and a resolution reached, no funeral or related traditional ceremony may be conducted for the deceased.
“When someone swears the Great Oath before Otumfuo, it signifies that the truth must be established before the highest traditional authority,” Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II explained. “All parties are required to appear before the Asantehene or his representative so that the matter can be properly examined and settled.”
When asked whether the local chief of Daddy Lumba’s hometown could intervene, the Tepamanhene dismissed that suggestion, stating that the case had already been elevated beyond local jurisdiction. However, he noted that if the hometown chief petitions Otumfuo and the Asantehene deems it appropriate, he may delegate authority for a local settlement under his supervision.
Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem II assured the public that once the necessary summons have been issued, the matter could be resolved swiftly, paving the way for the dignified performance of the late musician’s final funeral rites.
The invocation of Otumfuo’s Ntam Kɛseɛ is regarded as one of the most sacred and binding oaths in Asante custom, often invoked to seek truth or justice in matters of grave importance.