Concerning Developments on Bawku Crisis: Suspension of Campaigning
1. Since last night, I have been deeply troubled by recent developments that could potentially reignite the Bawku crisis and affect the entire Kusaug Traditional Area (KTA).
2. In February of last year, the Nayiri purportedly enskinned Alhaji Seidu Abagre as a rival Bawku Naba. The government swiftly condemned this act as illegitimate and a threat to National Security, aggravating the already volatile situation in Bawku. The government's immediate and clear response reaffirmed its commitment to peace in the region, providing reassurance to the people.
3. On February 15, 2023, the government issued a statement condemning this purported enskinment and reiterated that the current Bawku Naba, Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, is the duly recognized Chief of Bawku. This recognition, gazetted by both the Upper East Regional House and the National House of Chiefs, stands as a cornerstone of stability, keeping the public informed and supporting peace in the region.
4. Additionally, the government instructed security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone else claiming to be the Bawku Naba, affirming that any actions threatening peace would be swiftly addressed.
5. Following these directives, a High Court in Bolgatanga issued an arrest warrant for Alhaji Seidu Abagre. He remained in Nalerigu after the purported enskinment, apparently seeking protection under the Nayiri to avoid arrest. Attempts to enforce this warrant were met with resistance at the Nayiri’s palace.
6. The government’s decisions, including the issuance of a court arrest warrant and other collaborative efforts with stakeholders, have contributed to the gradual return of peace in the KTA. This includes the mandate for security agencies to apprehend and prosecute anyone falsely claiming the title of Bawku Naba, demonstrating the government’s dedication to securing lasting peace in the area.
7. The High Court's arrest warrant was challenged at the Appeals Court in Tamale, where the Office of the Attorney General defended the case. The Court of Appeals recently overturned the High Court's decision.
8. The Office of the Attorney General initially filed an appeal against the Court of Appeals' ruling but has since abandoned its intention to pursue this appeal further.
9. I have reliable information indicating that Alhaji Seidu Abagre has returned to Bawku, and tensions are already beginning to rise, with the potential to reignite the crisis in the region.
10. I view these recent developments as provocations that could severely impact the peace of Bawku and the KTA.
11. I wish to underscore that the right to self-determination is unwavering, and the Kusaug people are resolute in ensuring that their dignity and cultural heritage remain safeguarded.
12. Through this release, I am calling on the Government to issue a statement directing security agencies to arrest and prosecute Alhaji Seidu Abagre should he or his associates act in any way that suggests he considers himself the Bawku Naba.
13. Should the government fail to respond promptly, I will take further appropriate measures to protect life and property in the KTA. I call on the government to reaffirm its commitment, as stated on February 15, 2023, to ensure that the laws of Ghana are upheld by all.
14. In the meantime, I have suspended my campaign and all-party activities in the Zebilla Constituency until the government takes decisive action to address the ongoing provocations and potential threats to peace instigated by Alhaji Seidu Abagre and his accomplices.
15. While we advocate for respect for the rule of law and call on the government to enforce the country’s laws, I urge the good people of Kusaug to remain calm despite these provocations.
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For Immediate Release 
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