Private legal practitioner Nana Obiri Boahen has expressed reservations about the High Court’s decision in Accra to remand Alhaji Seidu Abagre, also known as Naa Sheriga Kulga II, in the custody of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) after refusing his bail application.
Alhaji Seidu Abagre has been charged with unlawfully acting as Bawku Naba without qualification, contrary to the Chieftaincy Act.
Speaking from a personal legal perspective, Nana Obiri Boahen said that if he were presiding over the case, he would have admitted Abagre to bail on self-recognisance, taking into account the broader circumstances surrounding the matter. He argued that continued detention risks worsening tensions rather than contributing to peace.
According to him, a more measured approach would involve housing the accused in Accra under strict state supervision. He proposed that the state provide secure accommodation fitted with CCTV cameras, adequate security, and access to medical care, while allowing family members and visitors under controlled conditions. He stressed that such measures, including allowing the accused access to food of his choice, could form part of a broader healing and de-escalation process.
Nana Obiri Boahen warned that remanding Abagre could embolden factions opposed to his chieftaincy claim, creating a perception of punishment before trial and potentially undermining efforts to resolve the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy conflict.
He further suggested that political leadership has a role to play beyond the courts. In his view, sustained dialogue—particularly regular engagement with both the Mamprusis and Kusasis—would be more effective in promoting peace than a hardline approach centred solely on prosecution.
He was, however, careful to clarify that his comments should not be interpreted as condemning or endorsing the decision to take the matter to court. Rather, he maintained that while legal processes are necessary, they must be balanced with conflict-sensitive measures to prevent escalation and promote lasting resolution.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku