Kusaug Council demands arrest, prosecution of ‘illegal’ Mamprusi leader Seidu Abagre

The Kusaug Traditional Council is calling on the government to arrest and prosecute Seidu Abagre, whom it describes as an “illegal Mamprusi leader” in Bawku.

The Council, in a press statement, insisted that Seidu Abagre’s enskinment is unlawful and his continuous activities in Bawku amount to provocation and a threat to peace. It further argued that his recognition as a leader holds no legitimacy under Ghana’s traditional and statutory systems.

According to the Council, Abagre’s actions—including the installation of chiefs and preparations towards a Damba Festival—are deliberate attempts to destabilize the area and undermine mediation efforts currently led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

The Council emphasized that the activities of Seidu Abagre and the Mamprusi community are illegal and dangerous. It alleged that these actions are deliberately designed to destabilize Bawku and could derail the mediation process currently being led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The Council warned that such provocation risks plunging the town back into conflict and bloodshed.

The statement revealed that under Abagre’s authority, individuals have already been installed as chiefs, including the Kpalore Naba and Nakyi Naba, with more appointments expected soon. The Council described this as a growing network of illegitimate chieftaincies that threatens the fragile peace in Bawku.

To address the matter, the Kusaasi Traditional Council outlined three urgent demands to government and security agencies: the arrest and prosecution of Seidu Abagre and his removal from Bawku, the immediate halting of security escorts provided for Mamprusis transporting goods in and out of the town, and the cancellation of the planned Damba Festival without the involvement of the legitimate Bawku Naba.

“We cannot continue to endure impunity and lawlessness forever,” the Council declared, stressing that patience among the Kusaasi people was wearing thin. It accused successive governments of failing to deal decisively with the issue, saying that inaction has emboldened Seidu Abagre and his supporters.

The statement, signed by Gumbo Naba Alhaji Mohamudu Assibi Azonko II on behalf of the Zug-Raan Bawku Naba and President of the Kusaasi Traditional Council, concluded with a stern caution. It warned that if decisive action is not taken against Seidu Abagre, Bawku risks being dragged back into renewed violence and instability.