The Kusaug Traditional Council has called for the immediate arrest and removal of Seidu Abagre, a figure they describe as an “illegally enskinned” Mamprusi leader in Bawku, accusing him of actions that could derail ongoing peace efforts in the conflict-prone area.
In a strongly worded statement following an emergency meeting held on Friday, August 29, the Council accused Mr. Abagre of engaging in what they termed “acts of impunity and provocation,” including preparations to enskin new sub-chiefs such as a Kpalore Naba and a Nakyi Naba—moves they believe are meant to bolster his claim to leadership and facilitate the celebration of the Damba Festival under his authority.
“These actions are a direct challenge to the peace process being spearheaded by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,” the Council stated. “The activities of the Mamprusi faction in Bawku risk derailing mediation efforts that are near resolution.”
The Kusaug Traditional Council also expressed frustration with what it described as successive governments’ failure to act decisively against Mr. Abagre, despite acknowledging the illegality of his enskinment.
“We expected both past and present administrations to uphold the rule of law by arresting and prosecuting Seidu Abagre, or at the very least, removing him from Bawku,” the statement read. “That has not happened, for reasons that remain unclear.”
The Council has outlined three key demands:
- The immediate arrest, prosecution, and removal of Seidu Abagre from Bawku.
- An end to security escort services for Mamprusi individuals and their goods in and out of Bawku.
- A suspension of the Damba Festival celebrations in Bawku unless they are led by the recognized Bawku Paramount Chief.
In closing, the statement—signed by Gumbo Naba Alhaji Mohamudu Assibi Azonko II—warned that continued inaction could lead to renewed violence, stressing that the Kusaug people’s patience should not be mistaken for weakness.
“Our people cannot continue to endure impunity and lawlessness. The necessary actions must be taken now to avoid further bloodshed,” the statement concluded.
