"In the West, the primacy of patrilineal succession is so deeply entrenched that the thought of supplanting that with matrilineal succession would be unthinkable. But that is exactly the situation among the Guan community of Winneba, Ghana called the Effutu. Their ancient patrilineal system of succession is in contention with the matrilineal succession practiced by their populous Akan neighbors.".

"What this book does is examine the two competing systems and their political ramifications, and, ultimately, establish the rightful heirs to the stool of the lion (Gyata). While the book focuses on the Effutu, it is a classic example of Ghanaian royal politicking. It takes an in-depth religio-historical and political approach in examining the settlement of Winneba, and the establishment of the institutional frameworks for nation building.".

"Infused with supernatural capabilities of the early settlers, the book brings to life the personal as well as the collective stories of the pioneers. Internal and external written sources are examined in relation to the factors that precipitated the polarization and strife among the Effutu. Finally, the book deals with the socio-political structure, religion and their cosmic significance, and occupational and economic practices of the Effutu."--BOOK JACKET.