A self-proclaimed king and his followers, members of the ‘Kingdom of Kubala,’ have been removed from a woodland encampment in the Scottish Borders, bringing a dramatic end to a months-long standoff with authorities.
Kofi Offeh, known as ‘King Atehene,’ arrived in Scotland with a bold declaration: “Everyone will bow before me, whether chiefs, politicians or even the police are going to serve me.” He and his queen, Gasho, claimed descent from Black Jacobites, exiled Highlanders forced from their lands centuries ago.
The group established a community in the ‘Mambaza Woodlands,’ attracting over 100,000 followers on social media with videos of their rituals and a self-described ‘simple life.’ They honored a deity named Yahowah and embraced a lifestyle far removed from modern society.
Their presence wasn’t without controversy. A woman named Taylor, who adopted the name ‘Asnat,’ joined the kingdom, becoming the king’s second wife. Her family, deeply concerned, reported her missing, fearing she’d been led astray by Offeh’s influence.
Taylor vehemently defended her choice, addressing authorities directly in a video message: “To the UK authorities, obviously I am not missing. Leave me alone. I’m an adult, not a helpless child.” Her words revealed a fierce independence and commitment to her new life.
Despite eviction notices and court orders from landowners, the Kingdom of Kubala repeatedly relocated, moving from a hillside site to council-owned land. Each attempt to dislodge them was met with defiance and a steadfast belief in their cause.
The group’s final days were documented in a poignant livestream. As immigration officers arrested Offeh and Taylor, Gasho, the queen, offered words of love and unwavering support: “I love you, my king… I’ll see you shortly.”
Even in the face of arrest, the kingdom’s spirit remained unbroken. A final Facebook post declared, “We stand strong. Kubala… Kubala. We will not be defeated. We are powerful.” The message echoed their unwavering conviction and the enduring legacy of their self-proclaimed kingdom.
The story of the Kingdom of Kubala is a complex one, a blend of historical claims, spiritual devotion, and personal choices that captivated attention and sparked debate. It’s a tale of a group determined to forge their own path, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.
