A Ghanaian court told an elderly detainee claiming chieftaincy to get comfortable in custody. The High Court denied bail for Alhaji Seidu Abagre, also called Naa Sheriga Kulga II, ordering his continued hold at the National Intelligence Bureau. Judges recognized the presumption of innocence but ruled that public interest concerns outweighed that right in this case.
Defense lawyer Martin Kpebu argued the seventy-eight-year-old retired teacher was unlawfully detained for weeks without formal charges. He stated the offenses were misdemeanors and his client posed no flight risk. The legal team accused the state of scrambling to find charges to file.
Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem Sai opposed bail, citing public safety. He argued the accused's claim to the Bawku skin is linked to the recent violence in the area. While not solely blaming Abagre for the Bawku conflict, the state claimed his release could threaten stability.
Alhaji Abagre pleaded not guilty to charges including acting as an unqualified chief and provoking riots. His claim to leadership was rejected by a mediation process led by the Asantehene, which affirmed another ruler. He was directed to live in Bawku only as a private resident afterwards. The court instructed the Attorney General to ensure the detainee's welfare and dignity are maintained.
Defense lawyer Martin Kpebu argued the seventy-eight-year-old retired teacher was unlawfully detained for weeks without formal charges. He stated the offenses were misdemeanors and his client posed no flight risk. The legal team accused the state of scrambling to find charges to file.
Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem Sai opposed bail, citing public safety. He argued the accused's claim to the Bawku skin is linked to the recent violence in the area. While not solely blaming Abagre for the Bawku conflict, the state claimed his release could threaten stability.
Alhaji Abagre pleaded not guilty to charges including acting as an unqualified chief and provoking riots. His claim to leadership was rejected by a mediation process led by the Asantehene, which affirmed another ruler. He was directed to live in Bawku only as a private resident afterwards. The court instructed the Attorney General to ensure the detainee's welfare and dignity are maintained.
