OseadeƐyɔ Addo Dankwa paid his dues to society

The State of Akuapem, like many other traditional areas that form the modern nation Ghana, has contributed to the development of the country.

Akuapems are noted for their pristine proclivity for discipline and respect for the elderly and, perhaps, that explains the reason why the Presbyterian Church struck a very mutual relationship with the people of that area.

The proverbial Presbyterian discipline has its origin from the Akuapem Ridge where the young and elderly have been taught to prefix every response with ‘please...’

The people of Akuapem have also contributed to the development of education as the first teacher training college, the Presbyterian Teachers Training College, now the Presbyterian College of Education, was the first institution for teacher education in the Gold Coast.

Many sons and daughters of the area have contributed in various fields of endeavour to the development of the country including two of their sons acceding to the highest office of the land as heads of state.

The proximity of Akuapem to Accra and the near temperate weather are additional attractions that draw other people to the area to enjoy the serene environment.

The Odwira festival of the chiefs and people of the area is also another magnet that draws thousands of revellers to the Ridge every year to make friends and have fun.

Notwithstanding the seeming peace of the Akuapem State, it has had its fair share of chieftaincy disputes resulting in a breakaway by three divisional chiefs.

Thankfully, before Oseadeeyo Addo Dankwa III, the Okuapehene, would be called to his ancestors, the Eastern Regional Co-ordinating Council and the clergy sealed a deal to bring the factions back to serve the Ofori Kuma Stool at Akropong.

Oseadeeyo Addo Dankwa is said to have died a happy man having managed to heal the wounds of division that bedevilled every reign of a paramount chief in Akuapem even to the end of their rule.

One of the early graduates of the University of Ghana, the paramount chief used his education to champion the cause of progress in society using his clout to seek interventions for the development of the area.

He thus died a statesman having served as Chairman of a number of strategic public institutions.

These institutions include the Graphic Communications Group Limited (GCGL), the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), the Social Security Bank (SSB) Limited (now Societe Generale Ghana) and the Bulk Oil Storage Transport (BOST) Company.

To those in the media, Oseadeeyo Addo Dankwa contributed to efforts in recognising excellence in journalism by hosting the Akuapem Press Awards.

Ghana has lost a genius. We are, however, happy that people from all shades of endeavour, including President John Mahama, found time to pay their last respects.

The funeral of the Okuapehene, who died at the prime age of 85, is a celebration of life. But for the fact that our paths will not cross again, this is the most difficult time for all, especially close relations, the people of Akuapem and friends.

The Daily Graphic wishes Oseadeeyo a safe journey to his ancestors. May God grant him eternal rest.

To the immediate family, we pray that God gives them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.