Dynamics of the Chieftaincy Succession Conflict in the Akuapem Traditional Area of Ghana (Published)
This study is a contribution to knowledge on the existence of succession conflict within the Akuapem Traditional Area. The study focused on the dynamics of the conflict. This study was anchored on an interpretivist philosophical viewpoint. Methodologically, the study employed a qualitative approach with case study research design. Thirty-four adults who have lived in the area for the past five years participated in the study. They included members of the traditional council, the Akuapem North Municipal Assembly, the royal gates to the paramountcy and adults within the community. Participants were selected using extreme case, critical case and convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected with the use of interview guide, focus-group discussion and observation protocols. The data collected were analysed thematically in line with the research question and emerged patterns from the dataset. The study found out that the dynamics of the conflict revolved around causes which involves power struggle, contestation of succession processes, and the disrespect of traditional authorities and stakeholders. The multiple causes resulted in the exacerbation of the conflict. The complex dynamics of the conflict has had multiple implications on the stability and development of the society. It is therefore, recommended that various measures be put in place by the government and various institutions concerned as well as the traditional area to address the chieftaincy succession issue and adequately ensure the full functioning of the institution and the society.
Citation:Shirley Dankwa, Ernest Kumi, Francis Tsatsu Owulah, Isaac Eshun (2021) Dynamics of the Chieftaincy Succession Conflict in the Akuapem Traditional Area of Ghana, International Journal of African Society, Cultures and Traditions, Vol.9, No.1, pp.48-76,
Keywords: Akwapem traditional area, Chieftaincy, Conflict, Ghana, Succession
A Critical Review of the Evolution of Kingship System among the Igbo of Nigeria (Published)
In this paper, we look at the evolution of the kingship system among the Igbo people of Nigeria. From a republican form of administration where the Council of Elders played pivotal roles in determining the political governance of the people, the Igbo are made to adopt a kingship system that confers political authority on a single individual. Aside of the initial hiccups that arose while introducing the system there is a further problem of how to institutionalize the kingship system in a largely republican character of Igbo society. Here, we take a cursory look at the evolution of the kingship system in Igboland and the criteria set out by successive administrations for selecting and recognizing the Igbo king. We then compare the Igbo king with his counterparts in other parts of Nigeria, in particular, the Hausa/Fulani and the Yoruba kings. We conclude that even in trying to meet with the ideal, the Igbo king still mirrors the republican character of traditional Igbo society
Keywords: Chieftaincy, Kingship, Republicanism, Traditional Ruler., Warrant Chief
