KNUST Lecturer Remanded Over Alleged Impersonation as Adumasa Chief

A 63-year-old lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr Cosmos Yaw Asante, has been remanded by the Kumawu Circuit Court for allegedly holding himself out as the chief of Adumasa in the Ashanti Region.

The court, presided over by Her Honour Hagar Addo, ordered Dr Asante to reappear on November 5, 2026.

He is facing a charge of acting or performing the functions of a chief without being qualified to do so, contrary to Section 63(A)(B) of the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759).

According to the prosecution, Dr Asante began presenting himself as the substantive chief of Adumasa on October 13, 2026, despite allegedly knowing that he was not qualified to occupy the position.

The prosecution identified the complainant, Nana Kwabena Yiadom, as the legitimate chief of Adumasa, while Dr Asante is said to be a native of the town.

Dispute over Adumasa chieftaincy

Police investigations indicate that the dispute followed the death of the former chief, Nana Yaw Oppong.

In August 2026, the Aduana clan, led by Nana Appiah Kubi, allegedly opposed the deceased chief’s burial at the royal cemetery despite a directive from the Omanhene of Juaben, Daasebre Nana Otuo Siriboe II. Police intervention was reportedly required before the burial could proceed.

The Omanhene subsequently enstooled Nana Kwabena Yiadom as the new chief. However, Dr Asante and his family allegedly prevented him from entering the palace, arguing that the building had been constructed by their ancestor.

The confrontation reportedly intensified when stones were thrown at police officers, leaving two officers injured.

On October 13, 2026, the Aduana family, led by Nana Appiah Kubi, allegedly enstooled Dr Asante as chief and carried him through the principal streets of Adumasa.

Police say he has since presented himself as a rival chief, raising concerns about tensions and the possibility of further clashes in the community.

Arrest and ongoing investigations

Dr Asante was arrested on October 28, 2026, as part of efforts to prevent further violence.

In his caution statement to the police, he reportedly admitted that the Aduana clan had enstooled him.

The prosecution also informed the court that the Donyina Circuit Court issued a bench warrant on August 23, 2026, for one of Dr Asante’s supporters, Owusu Yaw Kaya, popularly known as Toto, over alleged threats against the Omanhene.

According to the prosecution, the warrant had not yet been executed.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing as authorities seek to address the dispute and prevent further disturbances in Adumasa.