The Tepamanhene, Nana Adusei Atwenewa I, has shed light on why he and the spiritual custodians of Asanteman hold a unique authority over the movements of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Speaking in an interview with UTV, Nana Adusei Atwenewa, I revealed that two revered spiritual figures, Okomfo Anokye, historically linked to Agona, and Tepa Barnie, the river deity of Tepa are the principal protectors of Asanteman and the Manhyia Palace.
He likened their role to that of “bishops or spiritual leaders of the land” and “pastors” or “reverend ministers” serving at the spiritual heart of the Asante Kingdom.
According to the Tepamanhene, the primary responsibility of these spiritual protectors is to cleanse and clear the path spiritually before any official function involving the Asantehene.
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“When the Asantehene arrives at an event, he looks to his left to see Okomfo Anokye and to his right to see Tepa Barnie, confirming that the way is clear,” he explained.
He emphasised that Otumfuo Osei Tutu II does not undertake any public engagement without first consulting these spiritual leaders.
“If the spiritual leaders advise him not to attend a funeral, he will not attend. If he intends to act but they advise against it, he will stop,” Nana Adusei Atwenewa I noted and added that the Asantehene even instructs them to wear white attire so they can be easily identified.
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Beyond their role as spiritual protectors, the Tepamanhene disclosed that the Tepa Barnie deity is also revered for its ability to bless barren couples with children.
He cited the birth of Nana Agyeman Prempeh II as an example of a child believed to have been born through the deity’s intervention, stressing that many children with “special identities” are said to have come into the world through Tepa Barnie’s blessings.
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