Alhaji Seidu Abagre, a 79-year-old retired teacher who was expelled from Bawku on December 24, 2025, as a result of the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s recommendations in the mediation report regarding the long-running chieftaincy dispute in the area, is accused of four counts, one of which is acting as a chief without qualifications in violation of the Chieftaincy Act.
The additional charges include inciting a riot in violation of Section 200 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), engaging in offensive behaviour that could lead to a disturbance of the peace, and engaging in armed conflict.
Alhaji Seidu Abagre has entered a not guilty plea to each of the four charges.
The Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit, denied Alhaji Seidu Abagre’s request for bail after hearing arguments from the state and the defence on Monday.
Alhaji Seidu Abagre’s attorney, Martin Kpebu, maintained that his client was innocent and would remain in court for the duration of the trial.
According to Article 14 of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates that a detainee be notified of the reasons for detention at the material time, he told the court that Abagre had been detained for 26 days without being apprised of any wrongdoing at the time of arrest.
Mr. Kpebu went on to say that since Abagre’s crimes are “misdemeanours” with a three-year maximum punishment, it is doubtful that he would flee if given bail.
He claimed that Abagre has a regular residence in Bawku, is married, has kids, and has followers ready to act as sureties.
Source: newsthemegh.com