12/09/2025
Traditionally, all the Ga towns Ussher, James Town, Osu, La, Teshie, Nungua, Tema and others swore oaths of allegiance to the Ga Mantse, the King of Accra. No chief could be installed without first pledging loyalty to him. This practice is well-documented in colonial records and in Ga custom.
For example, when a new chief of James Town was installed, he took an oath before the Ga Mantse, promising loyalty, obedience, and defense of Accra. This proves that the Ga Mantse has always been recognized as head of the Ga State.
Later, under Nii Amugi II (1965–2004), the Ga Mantse elevated the towns to paramountcy status, giving their chiefs recognition as paramounts. However, he passed away before they could all renew their oaths of allegiance. Today, some towns claim autonomy but history, custom, and tradition show otherwise.
The Ga Mantse is not just another paramount chief. He is the sovereign head of the entire Ga people and the King of Accra.
Transcription Of The Document
The object of the coming of the new King of James Town (whose surname is Amoako Atta, because of his birth on the date of King Amoako Atta of Kyebi’s first entrance into this town) to Usher Town last Monday was to take Oath of Allegiance to King Tackie and the people of both Usher and James Town: which is the Custom of the Natives, when a new King or Chief is installed.
King Tackie, being the Head King of Accra, this new King has to take such an oath of allegiance to him; to say that he will at all times be loyal, and will never swerve from any of the rites and Customs of the town, nor betray him to enemies in case of any war; but will fight bravely in defence of his country. Also that he will not allow any hostile terms to exist between the people of James Town and Usher Town. And that during his reign he will obey all orders given to him by the Government and avoid bringing any trouble upon his people and will govern his people with justice and will at all times seek their interest.
King Tackie first and then some of the Chiefs of the town who represent the whole community of Accra took oaths respectively.
King Tackie then said he would as long as this new King acts upon his oaths…