Tanyigbe Traditional Council Reaffirms Authority of Togbega Kodi Adiko VI Amidst Legal Stay

Introduction

The Tanyigbe Traditional Council has issued a definitive statement reaffirming the legitimacy and authority of His Royal Highness, Togbega Kodi Adiko VI, as the Paramount Chief of the Tanyigbe Traditional Area. Located within the Ho Central Municipality of Ghana’s Volta Region, the Traditional Council addressed rising misinformation regarding the status of the Paramountcy. By clarifying the historical lineage, the customary selection process, and the current legal standing of the chieftaincy dispute, the Council aims to maintain peace and ensure that the public recognizes the rightful authority of Togbega Kodi Adiko VI. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the Council’s statement, the historical context of the Kodi Stool, and the legal implications of the ongoing appeal at the National House of Chiefs.

Key Points

Background

The Tanyigbe Traditional Area

The Tanyigbe Traditional Area is a significant cultural jurisdiction in the Volta Region of Ghana. It is comprised of four distinct divisions: Anyigbe, Etoe, Atidze, and Dzafe. Historically, the Traditional Area has been governed under the authority of the Paramount Chief, known as the Togbega, who resides on the Kodi Stool. The governance structure relies heavily on the adherence to Ewe customary law and the preservation of historical traditions dating back to the great Ewe migration.

Historical Lineage of the Kodi Stool

The Tanyigbe Traditional Council emphasizes that the Paramountcy is not subject to rotation among various clans. According to both oral tradition and documented historical records, the Kodi Stool is the exclusive preserve of the Kodivi Royal Clan, specifically the Adiko Royal Family. This lineage is traced back to the ancestral migration of the Ewe people from Notsie (in present-day Togo) to their current settlements in Ghana.

The Council has documented an unbroken succession of six Paramount Chiefs from this royal lineage. The succession list is as follows:

1. Togbe Kodi Adiko I
2. Togbe Fiakpoe Adiko II
3. Togbe Apatsi Adiko III
4. Togbe Goto Kɔsi Adiko IV
5. Togbe Kwasi Adiko V
6. Togbega Kodi Adiko VI (Current)

This historical continuity is central to the Council’s argument regarding the legitimacy of the current occupant of the stool.

Analysis

The Enstoolment Process and Customary Law

The controversy surrounding the Paramountcy largely stems from questions regarding the validity of the enstoolment process. Under Ewe customary law and the traditions of Tanyigbe, the selection of a Paramount Chief is a rigorous process involving key stakeholders, known as kingmakers. The Traditional Council asserts that following the death of Togbe Kwasi Adiko V, the selection of Togbega Kodi Adiko VI was conducted in strict conformity with these laws.

The process included three critical components:

1. Selection and Nomination: The rightful royal family members nominated the candidate.
2. Traditional Rites: Sacred rites were performed to cleanse and prepare the candidate.
3. Oath-Swearing and Outdooring: The candidate swore the necessary oaths of allegiance and was publicly outdoored to the community.

The Council maintains that the full participation and endorsement of the kingmakers validate the enstoolment, rendering it a legitimate exercise of customary rights.

Legal Implications: The Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759)

While the Traditional Council upholds the customary validity of the enstoolment, there is an active legal dispute regarding the Paramountcy. A ruling was delivered by the Volta Regional House of Chiefs in March 2025 regarding the Tanyigbe Paramountcy. However, the Council highlights a crucial aspect of Ghanaian chieftaincy law.

Under Section 34 of the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759), the filing of an appeal against a decision of a Regional House of Chiefs automatically operates as a stay of execution. This means that the ruling made by the Volta Regional House of Chiefs cannot be enforced until the National House of Chiefs has made a final determination on the appeal.

Consequently, the Council argues that assertions claiming Togbega Kodi Adiko VI has been nullified are legally unfounded. Until the National House of Chiefs concludes the appeal process, the status quo remains, and Togbega Kodi Adiko VI retains his authority to act as the Paramount Chief.

Practical Advice

For Community Members and Residents

Residents of the Tanyigbe Traditional Area and the general public are advised to remain calm and disregard rumors regarding the leadership of the Paramountcy. In situations involving chieftaincy disputes, it is common for misinformation to circulate, potentially causing unrest. Citizens should rely on official communications from the Tanyigbe Traditional Council for accurate updates.

For Stakeholders and Development Partners

Development partners, non-governmental organizations, and state institutions operating within the Volta Region should continue to engage with the recognized Traditional Authority. The Council has reiterated that the office of the Togbega remains open for collaboration on community development, education, and cultural preservation initiatives. Continued engagement ensures that development projects align with the cultural values and needs of the Tanyigbe people.

Respecting the Judicial Process

All parties involved in the chieftaincy dispute are urged to exercise restraint. The Council calls for respect for the judicial process currently underway at the National House of Chiefs. Avoiding inflammatory statements or actions that could undermine public order is essential for maintaining the peace that the Traditional Area has enjoyed under the current leadership.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Tanyigbe Traditional Council’s statement serves as a vital clarification of the legal and customary status of the Paramount Chief. By detailing the historical lineage of the Kodi Stool and explaining the legal effect of the pending appeal, the Council aims to dispel misinformation and prevent potential conflict. Togbega Kodi Adiko VI remains the recognized authority in the Traditional Area, with his powers legally protected during the appeal process. The focus now shifts to the National House of Chiefs for a final ruling, while the community is encouraged to uphold the peace and development that have characterized the region in recent years.