Soldiers sack Bawku rival chief over Otumfuo’s directive

Security forces have moved decisively to enforce the recommendations of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II–led mediation on the long-running Bawku chieftaincy dispute, with the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) removing Alhaji Seidu Abagre, the rival Mamprusi claimant to the Bawku skin, from the municipality.

The operation, carried out on Wednesday, December 24, followed formal directives contained in the mediation report presented earlier this month by the Asantehene to President John Dramani Mahama.

According to the Ministry of the Interior, the action was executed peacefully, and Alhaji Abagre was taken into the custody of state security agencies to ensure his safety and prevent further tension in the area.

In a brief statement, the Ministry confirmed that the removal formed part of the implementation of recommendations aimed at restoring lasting peace in Bawku, which has for decades been the epicentre of violent conflict between factions aligned with the Kusasi and Mamprusi traditional authorities.

“The Ghana Armed Forces have acted in accordance with the mediation recommendations of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to ensure calm and stability in Bawku,” the statement said, adding that the individual concerned remains safe under state protection.

Decision

The action follows months of intensive mediation led by the Asantehene, who was tasked by the President to help resolve the long-running chieftaincy dispute that has claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands over the years.

Central to the conflict is the question of legitimate traditional authority in Bawku, with the Supreme Court having previously ruled that Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II is the lawful Bawku Naba.

Despite the ruling, tensions persisted, particularly after Alhaji Seidu Abagre was installed by sections of the Mamprusi community as a rival chief.

The Otumfuo-led mediation sought to de-escalate the situation by recommending that Abagre be recalled to Nalerigu by the Nayiri, the Overlord of Mamprugu, and assigned a different traditional role outside Bawku.

In presenting the final report, Otumfuo emphasized that lasting peace could only be achieved if all parties respected existing legal and traditional rulings.

He stressed that Abagre could either accept reassignment under the Mamprugu traditional system or remain in Bawku strictly as a private citizen, not as a chief.

Security Response 

Following the execution of the directive, reports emerged of sporadic gunfire in parts of Bawku, although authorities have yet to confirm casualties.

Security patrols have since been intensified, with both the Ghana Armed Forces and Police maintaining a heavy presence to prevent reprisals or renewed violence.

Residents say the situation remains tense but relatively calm, as many await further guidance from traditional authorities and the government.

The Interior Ministry has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring full enforcement of the mediation outcomes.

Peace

The Bawku conflict, rooted in colonial-era administrative decisions and competing claims of traditional authority, has persisted for decades despite multiple peace initiatives, court rulings, and government interventions.