- Tepamanhene Nana Adusei Atwenewa I revealed that Okomfo Anokye and Tepa Barnie serve as spiritual guardians of Asanteman.
- He described them as the “pastors” or “reverend ministers” of the Manhyia Palace.
- Their role includes performing cleansing rituals before the Asantehene attends any major function.
- The Asantehene consults these deities before embarking on official duties or attending funerals.
- Tepa Barnie is also believed to bless barren couples with children, with historical examples cited.
- The spiritual roles of these deities remain central to the cultural and traditional strength of Asanteman.
Tepamanhene Nana Adusei Atwenewa I has shed light on the spiritual foundation of Asanteman, naming Okomfo Anokye and Tepa Barnie, the revered river deity of Tepa, as the central forces behind the kingdom’s protection and progress.
Speaking on UTV, the chief explained that these two powerful spiritual figures act as the equivalent of bishops or ministers within the traditional setup of the Manhyia Palace. Their responsibilities include conducting spiritual cleansing rituals and guiding the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in all his official and ceremonial duties.
According to Nana Adusei Atwenewa I, no major event in the Asante Kingdom proceeds without consultation from these spiritual protectors. Whether it is a state function, funeral, or sensitive decision, the Asantehene is said to seek direction from Okomfo Anokye and Tepa Barnie before acting.
He emphasized that the Asantehene is flanked spiritually by both deities at every official gathering—Okomfo Anokye on his left and Tepa Barnie on his right—as a sign that the path has been cleared for him.
Beyond protecting the kingdom, Tepa Barnie is also believed to bless barren couples with children. Tradition holds that the birth of Nana Agyeman Prempeh II was made possible through the intervention of this deity, with many other families in Asanteman attributing their children to the blessings of Tepa Barnie.
The Tepamanhene highlighted that their sacred duties remain crucial to the survival of Asante culture and tradition, adding that this is why such figures are publicly honored and distinguished.
