South Holland, Illinois — January 31, 2026.
A wave of grief swept through the home of the late Kontihene of the Okuapeman Fekuw of Chicago, Nana Kwasi Agyepong, as members of the Ewe Association of Metropolitan Chicago arrived to commiserate with the bereaved family and the Okuapeman community. What began as a solemn visit quickly became an emotional gathering, with mourners openly weeping as memories of the departed leader were shared.
Led by Togbe Addo and Mama Nunyati, the Ewe delegation entered the residence in dignified unity, their presence offering comfort to a family still struggling to comprehend the sudden loss. The entourage included Mama Sedudzi (Empress Mawusi Kudjawu), Togbui Hadzide (Reuben Hadzide ) , who served as the Okyeame for the Ewe delegation , Elder Rosemary Amegashie, and Ms.Mavis Azumah.
Inside the home, the atmosphere was heavy with sorrow. Several mourners broke down as they spoke about Nana Agyepong’s gentle nature and unwavering commitment to cultural duty. One elder, wiping tears, whispered that “he never raised his voice, yet his presence commanded respect.” Another mourner described him as “the kind of leader who showed up before you called him.”
Representing the bereaved family were Opanyin Boafo Papafio (Mayor) , Abusuapanyin Akuffo, Abusuapanyin Martin Dade Bonsu, Elder Eddie Anobaa, Okuapeman Hemaa Abenaa Akyeampomaa, Gyaasehene Yaw Bekoe, Gyaasehemaa Addobea, Krontihemaa Frimponaa, Mabaahemaa Esi,Awo Ama Sakyibea II,
Ohemaa Ama Owusua Adepa, President Eric Boafo, and several other family elders and community members . The Okyeame for the occasion was Kwame Akuffo Mega, who guided the proceedings with solemn decorum.
The gathering also drew prominent figures from the wider Ghanaian community, including the Ga-Mantse of Chicago, Nii Yebouh Nortey, the Asantefuo Oyokohene, Nana Kwasi Osei, and Paa Kwasi Sam, former President of the Ghana National Council. Their presence underscored the deep respect Nana Agyepong commanded across ethnic and traditional lines.
During the visit, the family formally announced that the 40th-day celebration (Dotuyie) for the late Kontihene will be held on March 7, 2026. In the Okuapeman Traditional Area, Dotuyie marks the lifting of the initial mourning period for a chief, a moment when the family, community, and traditional state gather to honor the life, legacy, and service of the departed. It is also the day when final funeral arrangements are traditionally announced.
As the announcement was made, quiet sobs rippled through the room. Many reflected on the suddenness of Nana Agyepong’s passing, which occurred shortly after he returned from Ghana earlier this week. His death has left a void that community members say will be difficult to fill.
To those who knew him, Nana Agyepong was far more than a titleholder. He was a steady, dependable presence, one who carried himself with quiet dignity and served with unwavering devotion. At cultural events, he stood as a symbol of pride and continuity. When representation was needed, he stepped forward without hesitation. Though soft-spoken, his commitment to his people spoke louder than any words.
As the community prepares for the Dotuyie and the final funeral rites to follow, one sentiment echoed throughout the home: a good man has fallen, and his people feel the weight of his absence.
The Okuapeman Fekuw and the bereaved family continue to invite the Ghanaian community in Chicago and beyond to stand with them in the coming weeks as they honor the memory of a leader whose humility, service, and cultural devotion touched many lives.
As Okyeame of Okuapeman traditional council I write with heavy heart at where I’m in far away Poland . I’m mourning the same way it is going back home and want the bereaved family, Okuapeman Fekuw and Ghanaian Community as a whole to know that I’m with in prayers and mourning. My deepest condolences everyone of us all.