The Tanyigbe Traditional Area is mourning the loss of Togbe Yao Sunu II, Divisional Chief of Tanyigbe Dzafe, who passed away on September 2, 2022, at the Ho Teaching Hospital, Trafalga.
He was 86 years old.
Born Johnson Yao Avornyo on February 2, 1936, Togbe Sunu was enstooled on November 8, 1967, and served his community for over five decades as both a traditional ruler and devout Christian leader.
Togbe Kodi Adiko VI, Paramount Chief of Tanyigbe Traditional Area, described him as “a man of truth and honesty in both word and action” who “never carried himself with pride or entitlement” despite being the oldest and longest-reigning divisional chief.
Before his enstoolment, Togbe Sunu worked as a Quantity Surveyor before transitioning to farming, where he established successful beekeeping and snail rearing enterprises. He was instrumental in forming the Dzafe Beekeepers' Association.
Uniquely, Togbe Sunu served simultaneously as a traditional ruler and presbyter in the Global Evangelical Church at Tanyigbe Dzafe, earning him the nickname “Togbe-Pastor.” He served as chaplain to the chiefs and elders of Tanyigbe.
During his tenure, he oversaw numerous developmental projects, including school construction, street lighting, road development, and a community centre. He also represented Tanyigbe at Norvisi Development Union (NorDU) Executive meetings.
The final funeral rites, which commenced on October 30, 2025, are currently in progress and will conclude on November 23, 2025.
He is remembered as a humble, principled and development-minded leader whose legacy will continue to shape Tanyigbe for generations to come.
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