Court Orders Detention of Rival Bawku Naba Amid Protests

An Accra High Court has ordered the detention of Alhaji Seidu Abagre, known as the rival Bawku Naba, following his arrest on December 24, 2025. This decision comes after a mediation report from the Asantehene, which recommended Abagre's removal from his chieftaincy position. He faces multiple charges including provoking a riot, breach of peace, unlawfully impersonating a chief, and unlawful possession of firearms. Despite a bail application, the court denied his release, and the case has been adjourned to February 2, 2026.

The detention has sparked significant unrest, with youth from the Mamprusi community staging protests outside the court, demanding Abagre's release. They argue that the charges against him are unfounded and that his detention is unjust. His attorney, Martin Kpebu, has announced plans to file a habeas corpus application on January 26, 2026, to challenge the legality of the detention. Kpebu has criticized the state's justification for the charges, emphasizing the need for a fair legal process. The situation remains tense as the community rallies for Abagre's freedom, highlighting the deep-seated issues surrounding chieftaincy disputes in the region.