The Dutor of the Anlo Dukor, Torgbiga Wenya III, has expressed opposition to a proposed elevation of 36 settlements within the Anlo State to Paramountcies by the Awoamefia, Torgbi Sri III. This move is seen as an attempt to undermine the established traditional authority structures governing the Anlo Kingdom. Torgbiga Wenya III, supported by the Council of Elders of the Loafe Clan, issued a communique in response to an invitation letter dated 17th September 2026.
The invitation letter, reference no. ADC/AWS/2026/09/009, was sent to selected community Chiefs for elevation to Paramount Chief status. However, Torgbiga Wenya III asserted that the Awoamefia, Torgbi Sri III, does not possess the authority to elevate Chiefs to paramount status. He argued that such an action could disrupt the existing traditional structures of the Anlo Kingdom, which have been in place for a long time.
According to Torgbiga Wenya III, the 36 settlements are already within established paramountcies, and under Anlo custom and tradition, the Awoamefia lacks the authority to elevate any chief to the status of a paramount chief. He stressed that the intended action is solely to create further confusion and division within the kingdom. This move has raised concerns among the Loafe Clan Council of Elders.
Torgbiga Wenyah also accused certain elements responsible for handling the affairs of Torgbi Sri, who is currently unwell due to age and health issues, of initiating this agenda to serve their own narrow interests. The Council notes with grave concern the Awoamefia's continued inability to effectively perform the functions of his office due to his advanced age and declining health.
Torgbiga Wenyah III directed the Awoamefia to cease any plans for the proposed elevation ceremony, as it risks causing chaos within the traditional structures of the Anlo Kingdom. He warned that should the Awoamefia proceed with this futile exercise, the Loafe clan will formally withdraw Dutor Wenya's customary authority from him and declare his office vacant.
Furthermore, Torgbiga Wenyah III recommended the nomination of a Regent to exercise the powers of the Awoamefia, in accordance with customary practice and precedent. The Loafe clan will invite the Royal Adzovia clan to nominate a regent to exercise the powers of the Awoamefia pending the commencement of necessary customary rites.
This is not the first time a Regent has been appointed to carry out the duties of the Awoamefia temporarily. When Torgbi Adeladza II faced a similar situation where ill health incapacitated him, Torgbi Dzokoto Gligui VI, was appointed as Regent. The current situation has sparked a controversy within the Anlo Kingdom, with Torgbiga Wenya III taking a firm stance against the proposed elevation.
Key points
- Torgbiga Wenya III opposes the elevation of 36 Anlo chiefs to Paramount status.
- The proposed elevation could disrupt traditional authority structures in the Anlo Kingdom.
- Torgbiga Wenyah III recommends the nomination of a Regent to exercise the powers of the Awoamefia.
