Bawku: Military removes Abagre as Otumfuo report takes effect
The Ghana Armed Forces have removed Alhaji Seidu Abagre from Bawku following recommendations contained in a mediation report by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on the long-running chieftaincy dispute.
The operation took place on December 24, 2025, as part of steps taken by the state to carry out the findings of the mediation presented to President John Dramani Mahama earlier in the month.
The Minister for the Interior, Mr Muntanka Mohammed-Mubarak, confirmed in a statement issued by the MInistry on Christmas Eve that Alhaji Abagre was safe and in the custody of state security agencies.
The removal followed the presentation of the Asantehene’s mediation report to the President at the Jubilee House on December 16, 2025. The report concluded that the enskinment of Alhaji Abagre as Bawku Naba could not stand due to security concerns at both the national and international levels.
It recommended that Alhaji Abagre be recalled to Nalerigu by the Nayiri to take up another traditional role. As an alternative, the report stated that he could remain in Bawku as a private citizen without laying claim to the title of Bawku Naba.
The mediation also recognised Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Kusasi enskinned Bawku Naaba, as the legitimate traditional ruler of the area in line with the 1992 Constitution.
Government accepted the recommendations and announced plans to support the safe movement of Alhaji Abagre to Nalerigu. President Mahama also directed the Minister for Finance to set up a GH¢1 billion Bawku Revitalisation Fund as part of efforts to restore stability to the area.
The removal took place against the backdrop of rising security tensions in the region. On December 18, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police deployed additional personnel and armoured vehicles to Nalerigu and nearby communities after some youth set two houses on fire and threatened further attacks.
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak had earlier renewed curfew hours for the Bawku Municipality with effect from November 24, 2025, requiring residents to stay indoors between 8:00 pm and 5:00 am.
