The Addys of Atukpai

The Addys are from the Atukpai sub-quarter of Gbese in Ga Mashie, tracing their roots to Nii Boi Tono (c.1660–1740) of Nyonmo Tsawe at Akotia Gwale – a distinguished spiritual and military leader of his time. Closely linked houses include Nai We and Amugi We.

Following his passing, his daughter Naa Borkai succeeded him. Her son, Saul Tetteh Tsuru Addy, was later enstooled as Nii Tetteh Tsuru I, serving as Mantse and Gbese Mankralo.

At Atukpai, Nii Tetteh Tsuru Addy I (c.1705–1770) established four ruling houses for his children, in addition to the ancestral stool. These houses – known in Ga as “We” – are:

• Nii Ngleshie Addy We
• Nii Addy Koblah We
• Nii Kpani Tsuru We
• Kpani Koblah We

Nii Ngleshie Addy I, after whom one of the houses is named, was later seconded to Ngleshie for military duty. He played a key role in the historic Battle of Katamanso (7th August 1826), where Ga forces defeated the Ashanti army in a decisive victory that reshaped the region’s history.

Originally known as Afiyea Lei (Lewe Webii), the sub-quarter later became known as Otuopai – a name linked to battlefield experiences where rifles burst during combat, symbolising resilience and warcraft. Over time, this evolved into the present name Atukpai.