Presbyterian Church eulogises J.B. Danquah on 60th anniversary of his passing

The Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery has eulogized the late Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah for his immense contributions to the propagation of the gospel and the development of mankind.

During a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah’s demise, the Chairman of the Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery, Rev. Professor Seth Asare Danso, praised him for his unwavering dedication to both humanity and the spread of the gospel within Akyem Abuakwa.

Professor Seth Asare Danso highlighted Dr. Danquah’s invaluable contribution to the consolidation of Okyeman’s leadership, the preservation of Akan cultural heritage, the independence struggle of Ghana, and his defense of democracy against authoritarianism and arbitrariness. These efforts have cemented his unique place in the history of the nation.

ABOUT J.B. DANQUAH

The whole nation was thrown into grief and shock on the morning of February 4th, 1965, when the news broke that J.B. Danquah had passed away under mysterious circumstances at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison. He had been detained on the orders of the Kwame Nkrumah-led Convention People’s Party (CPP).

Dr. J.B. Danquah considered himself a lifelong servant of the Chieftaincy institution and frequently described the traditional rulers, Nananom, as natural and anointed leaders. His dedication to this cause was evident from an early age, as he served as the State Secretary of Akyem Abuakwa during the Conference of Paramount Chiefs of the Eastern Province of the Gold Coast from 1916 to 1921. This was at the age of just 21. His efforts were instrumental in laying the foundation for the establishment of the Joint Provincial Council, which later led to the formulation of the Native Administration Ordinance of 1927.

Danquah also played a critical role in various delegations to the Colonial Office in England, including a notable one in 1934 that successfully persuaded the colonial administration to enlarge the Legislative Council and allow individuals outside of the chieftaincy to become members.

Dr. J.B. Danquah’s work in understanding and preserving Akan culture, heritage, and tradition is epitomized in his celebrated work, Akan Laws and Customs – And the Akyem Abuakwa Constitution, published in London in 1928. This theoretical and scientific treatise has had a lasting impact on the appreciation and understanding of Akan customs.

In recognition of his profound contributions, the people of Okyeman created the Twafo stool in his honor and enstooled him as the Okyenman Twafohene.

A LEGACY CONTINUED

The current Okyeman Twafohene, Okatakyie Ababio Boakye Danquah, pledged to continue elevating the legacy of his predecessor, Dr. J.B. Danquah, to ensure that his contributions are not forgotten. He emphasized that J.B. Danquah had secured his place in history as the iconic chronicler and codifier of not only Akyem Abuakwa but also Akan customs, traditions, and history.

Okatakyie Boakye Danquah called for a bright future, one that is guided by a vision of hope, tolerance, and respect for the opinions, lives, and dignity of all people, regardless of their political views. He described J.B. Danquah as the epitome of respect for human dignity, cultural traditions, and the love for freedom.

Rev. Atiemo Aye, the District Pastor of the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Kyebi, also highlighted the Presbyterian Church’s ongoing commitment to honoring the memory of Dr. J.B. Danquah.

NOTABLE GUESTS

The wreath-laying ceremony was graced by several distinguished chiefs, including the Chief of Adedientem, Barima Ofori Asante; Kyebi Kyedomhene, Barima Bosompem; Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Fori Amantoamiensahene; the Akyem Abuakwa State Secretary, D. M. Ofori-Atta; and the Manwerehene of Adedientem, Barfour Boamah Darko.

In addition, the ceremony was attended by the children, grandchildren, and other family members of Dr. J.B. Danquah, among other dignitaries.

The event underscored not only the enduring legacy of Dr. J.B. Danquah but also the importance of preserving and celebrating the culture, history, and freedom he fought to protect.

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