The Techiman Traditional Council has clarified reports circulating on social media regarding an alleged attack on the convoy of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during his visit to the Bono East Region.
In a statement on December 3, the Council stated that there is no animosity between the people of Techiman and the Asantes, highlighting their shared heritage and mutual respect.
This comes after some unidentified youth hurled stones at Asantehene’s convoy in Techiman on Monday, December 2.
The incident which occurred in the Bono East Region has sparked widespread concern across the nation.
According to a preliminary police report, the Asantehene’s convoy was returning to Kumasi after attending a funeral in Nkoranza when an unidentified youth believed to be from Techiman hurled stones at some of the buses in the convoy.
In light of this, the Council noted that the Asantehene and the Techimanhene share familial ties as members of the Oyoko Clan, regarding each other as brothers.
It said over the years, both traditional leaders have maintained a strong relationship, marked by mutual visits and collaboration during significant events.
The Council addressed claims that Otumfuo’s security guards fired gunshots and molested innocent civilians in Techiman, leading to tensions among the youth.
They explained that these allegations, coupled with unverified social media posts, likely escalated misunderstandings and angered the youth into action to defend themselves.
The Council said the swift intervention of security services helped maintain peace, and those injured were treated at the Holy Family Teaching Hospital.
The Techiman Traditional Council reiterated that Techiman is a cosmopolitan town that welcomes everyone, regardless of ethnicity, race, or religion.
They urged the public, particularly the youth, to focus on activities that foster development and unity.
The Council also appealed for responsible use of social media, cautioning against posts that insult traditional authorities or propagate falsehoods.
“Chieftaincy is a revered institution that must be respected at all times,” the statement read, urging Ghanaians to uphold the peace and harmony inherited from their forebears.