Authorities are taking no chances at all to ensure that violence does not erupt in Yendi. Search barriers have been mounted at all entry points in the Yendi township, as the Abudu Royal Family’s ultimatum to occupy the Gbewaa palace elapses. Even though business activities are going on normally, the presence of security personnel, both in uniform and plain clothes, has increased.
The Regional Security Committee and the Minister of Chieftaincy and Culture, since last Saturday, have been meeting over the renovation and the performance of the funerals of Ya-Naa Mahamadu Abdulai IV and the late Ya-Naa Andani Yakubu Abdulai II.
Both sides have taken entrenched positions in the decades-old chieftaincy problem. All vehicles, both commercial and private, are subjected to proper searches before being allowed to enter the Yendi township.
The chieftaincy and Culture Minister, Dr Seidu Dana is said to have moved from Sunyani, where the issue was discussed intensively to Kumasi to meet with the Asantehene, Otumfou Osei Tutu II.
Security at the Gbewaa Palace is said be at its peak, as it is the focal point of the looming danger. It is not clear what will be discussed at the Manhyia Palace, regarding the heightening tension in Yendi. Meanwhile, the Abudu Royal Family has hinted their intention to embark on demonstration on February 4, 2016 to press home their demands.