Assin Tetre-Nkwanta Chief Dies in Tragic Highway Accident, Community in Mourning

The Chief of Assin Tetre-Nkwanta in the Assin North District of Ghana’s Central Region, Nana Kweku Opare II, has died following a fatal road accident that occurred on the Cape Coast–Kumasi Highway. The 70-year-old traditional ruler reportedly lost his life after being struck by a motorbike on Sunday evening, February 15, 2026.

The incident, which took place at approximately 8:00 p.m. at Assin Praso, has left residents of Assin Tetre-Nkwanta devastated. According to eyewitness accounts, Nana Kweku Opare II was returning home from a funeral in his hometown when the tragic collision occurred. He was said to be attempting to cross the highway when the motorbike knocked him down.

Witnesses at the scene described the impact as severe. The chief sustained multiple fractures to his arms and legs as a result of the crash. Bystanders quickly alerted the police and assisted in efforts to transport him to the Assin Praso Presbyterian Hospital for emergency medical care. Despite swift intervention, he was pronounced dead on arrival by medical personnel.

The motorbike rider, identified as 24-year-old Ebenezer Tettey, also suffered serious injuries in the accident. He is currently receiving treatment at the same hospital. Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding his condition.

The sudden passing of Nana Kweku Opare II has plunged the Assin Tetre-Nkwanta community into deep mourning. As a traditional leader, he played a pivotal role in guiding local development initiatives and preserving cultural values within the area. His death marks a significant loss not only to his immediate family but also to the wider traditional council and residents of the district.

Community members have expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy. Many described the late chief as a unifying figure who championed peace and cooperation among his people. Plans for funeral arrangements and traditional rites are expected to be announced by the family and the traditional council in the coming days.

Police officers who responded to the scene have commenced preliminary investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities are expected to examine factors such as visibility, speed, and road conditions at the time of the incident. The Cape Coast–Kumasi Highway is a major transportation corridor that has witnessed several accidents over the years, prompting repeated calls for enhanced road safety measures and greater caution among motorists and pedestrians alike.

The tragic death of Nana Kweku Opare II adds to a series of recent incidents involving traditional leaders in Ghana.

In November 2025, the Techiman Tanoso Traditional Area was shaken by the fatal shooting of its Akwamuhene, Nana Owusu Koko. The 74-year-old chief was reportedly attacked by unidentified gunmen while working on his farm early on the morning of November 8, 2025. According to a preliminary police report, he was discovered lying in a pool of blood with approximately 15 visible wounds.

Two individuals who found him at the scene indicated that he was still alive at the time, despite the severity of his injuries. He was rushed to Amoako Hospital in Tanoso for initial treatment but was later transferred to Holy Family Hospital in Techiman due to his critical condition. Unfortunately, he was also pronounced dead on arrival.

Following the shooting, the bereaved family reported the matter to the local police, and the Regional Criminal Investigations Department subsequently took over the case. Investigations into the circumstances of the attack are ongoing, with authorities working to identify and apprehend those responsible.

Meanwhile, another tragic incident was recorded in the Bono Region, where a 43-year-old man, Yaw Owusu, allegedly stabbed his 25-year-old brother, Bright Abotsi, to death at Awerempe. The suspect was reportedly apprehended while attempting to flee the area. Police have launched an investigation into the fatal confrontation, and the victim’s body has been conveyed for post-mortem examination.

These recent events have heightened public concern about safety and security across various communities. Traditional leaders, in particular, occupy critical positions within Ghanaian society, serving as custodians of customs and key agents of local governance. Their deaths—whether through accidents or acts of violence—often carry profound emotional and cultural implications for their communities.

As investigations continue into the accident that claimed the life of Nana Kweku Opare II, residents of Assin Tetre-Nkwanta are left grappling with grief and uncertainty. Many have called for renewed efforts to improve road safety along busy highways and to enforce traffic regulations more rigorously to prevent similar tragedies.

The passing of the chief marks the end of an era for Assin Tetre-Nkwanta. His leadership and service to his people will be remembered as the community prepares to honor him according to custom and tradition.