A Scottish court has ordered the eviction of a self-styled African tribe from private woodland near Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders. The group, known as the Kingdom of Kubala, includes three members who claim they are reclaiming ancestral land stolen centuries ago, but local authorities say their camp breaks the law.
Background of the Kingdom of Kubala
The story began in the spring of 2025 when Kofi Offeh, a 36-year-old from Ghana, and Jean Gasho, 42, originally from Zimbabwe, arrived in the Jedburgh area. They declared themselves King Atehehe and Queen Nandi, setting up a camp on a hillside above the town.
Joined by Kaura Taylor from Texas, who goes by Asnat and acts as their handmaiden, the trio founded what they call the Kingdom of Kubala. They insist their ancestors lost the land 400 years ago during colonial times, and they aim to reclaim it as a sovereign territory.
This claim has sparked debate online and in local communities, with some viewing it as a bold statement on historical injustices, while others see it as an unlawful occupation.
Initial Eviction and Relocation
Scottish Borders Council first stepped in during July 2025, evicting the group from their original hillside spot. Officials cited trespassing on public land and safety concerns.
Instead of leaving the region, the trio moved about a mile away to a wooded area next to an industrial estate. They set up tents and continued their activities, sharing updates on social media about their kingdom.
This relocation drew more attention, including reports of local residents expressing frustration over the ongoing presence. The group faced allegations of harassment, though they maintained their right to stay.
Public reactions varied, with some supporting their cause as a form of protest against colonialism, and others calling for stricter enforcement of property laws.
Court Ruling and Immediate Effects
On September 12, 2025, Sheriff Peter Paterson at Jedburgh Sheriff Court issued an eviction warrant. The order took effect right away, following the group’s failure to leave by a Monday deadline set earlier that week.
None of the members attended the hearing or had lawyers present. The court ruled in favor of the private landowner, emphasizing that the camp violated property rights.
Reports indicate the group has vowed to defy the order, with statements suggesting they plan to remain in the woodland. This defiance could lead to forced removal by authorities in the coming days.
The ruling highlights ongoing tensions between land rights claims and modern legal systems, especially in areas with historical ties to colonialism.
Here are key details from the court decision:
- Effective Date: Immediate as of September 12, 2025
- Location: Woodland near Jedburgh, Scottish Borders
- Reason: Trespassing on private property
- Group Size: Three members
Public and Media Reactions
The case has gone viral on social platforms, with thousands of views and shares. Posts describe the group as migrants reclaiming lost heritage, while others mock the situation or accuse locals of racism.
Media outlets have covered the story widely, from BBC reports to international news sites. Some compare it to other land disputes, like indigenous rights movements in Canada or Australia.
Locals in Jedburgh have mixed feelings. A few residents support the group’s message on historical wrongs, but many worry about safety and property values.
This event ties into broader 2025 trends, such as rising discussions on reparations for colonial eras, seen in recent UK debates over museum artifacts returned to African nations.
Potential Next Steps and Broader Implications
Authorities may now involve police to enforce the eviction if the group does not comply. Legal experts suggest the trio could face fines or further charges for non-compliance.
The Kingdom of Kubala has hinted at appealing the decision or seeking international support, perhaps through human rights organizations.
This incident raises questions about how societies handle unconventional claims to land in 2025, amid global migration and historical reconciliation efforts.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Group Members | Kofi Offeh (King Atehehe), Jean Gasho (Queen Nandi), Kaura Taylor (Asnat) |
| Claim Basis | Ancestral land stolen 400 years ago |
| Initial Site | Hillside above Jedburgh, evicted in July 2025 |
| Current Site | Woodland near industrial estate |
| Court Action | Eviction order on September 12, 2025 |
| Potential Outcomes | Forced removal, fines, or appeals |
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