The Awutu Traditional Council in the Central Region is observing this year’s Awubia Festival under a sombre mood following the death of its Paramount Chief, Nai Agyeman Wayttey Otabil, who joined his ancestors a few months ago.
In honour of the late Omanhene, the traditional council has placed restrictions on drumming, noise-making and other merry-making activities throughout the festival.
The Nsuman-kwaahene of the Awutu Traditional Council and Odikro of Ahentia, Nai Mensah Otabil, said the measures were necessary to allow the people to mourn their late king while observing the annual festival.
He disclosed that residents across the traditional area would wear black and red attire throughout the celebration as a sign of mourning and respect for the late Paramount Chief.
Nai Mensah Otabil made the remarks during the performance of traditional rituals and the sprinkling of Kpekple, led by the Traditional Chief Priest, Nai Odai Tutu, as part of activities marking the Awubia Festival.
The rituals formed part of activities marking this year’s Awubia Festival.
According to Nai Mensah Otabil, the restrictions are intended to preserve the solemn nature of this year’s celebration and honour the memory of the late Omanhene.
He also appealed to the people of Awutu to maintain peace and unity during the festival.
The traditional leader stressed that unity among the people was essential to achieving meaningful development in the Awutu Traditional Area.
This year’s Awubia Festival therefore combines traditional celebration with mourning as the people of Awutu honour their late Paramount Chief and observe the customary rites associated with the festival.
