The Overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, has accused state security agencies of abusing their power. He demanded urgent investigations into alleged killings and mistreatment of Mamprusi youth. These incidents are linked to the ongoing Bawku conflict. The Nayiri made these accusations at a press conference in Nalerigu on May 19, 2026. He expressed deep concern over the situation.
His Magnificence described various human rights abuses. These include arbitrary arrests, unlawful detentions, torture, and abductions. He also alleged extrajudicial killings of Mamprusi persons. These alleged acts occurred in connection with the Bawku chieftaincy crisis. The Nayiri stated that recent events have worsened mistrust and insecurity in the region. He noted that the Bawku conflict has continued to deteriorate despite mediation efforts. These efforts were led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The mediation has not restored peace. Instead, it has heightened tensions in the traditional area.
The Nayiri further alleged suppression of dissenting voices from Mamprugu. This suppression occurred regarding the mediation process. Intimidation and media restrictions are allegedly used. He raised specific concerns after a visit by the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno. The IGP reportedly visited Bawku around May 10, 2026. Assurances were allegedly made to armed Kusasi youth. These assurances concerned recruitment into the Ghana Police Service. This happened after the IGP’s convoy was reportedly attacked. Since then, the Nayiri claims a pattern of arrests and deaths of Mamprusi individuals in state custody has emerged. He cited the case of Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu. This individual was allegedly abducted by persons believed to be police officers. He later died under suspicious circumstances. Seidu Safianu and Shamsudeen Mohammed were also arrested. They were reportedly killed after being removed from custody. The Nayiri rejected official explanations. These explanations linked the deaths to robbery. He insists Mamprugu authorities have contradictory evidence. More than 40 Mamprusi individuals were reportedly arrested and sent to Accra. This happened since December 16, 2025. The charges against them are described as questionable. Others allegedly remain unaccounted for.
The Mamprugu King also accused armed Kusasi groups. They continue to attack civilians and travellers. This occurs along the Bawku–Bolgatanga highway. Military escorts are present, yet attacks persist. The Nayiri questioned unequal security arrangements for travellers. Kusasi travellers allegedly receive armed escorts frequently. Mamprusi travellers often wait for weeks without protection. He condemned the arrest and detention of Bawku Naa Sheriga. No citizen should be forcibly removed from their ancestral home. This should not happen under political pressure. The Nayiri criticized curfews and alleged military brutality. He also denounced intimidation and selective arrests. These acts reportedly occur in Nalerigu, Walewale, and surrounding areas. The Constitution of Ghana prohibits state interference in chieftaincy matters. He accused the state of taking sides. This involves challenging the legitimacy of a chief installed by traditional authority. Mamprugu has exercised restraint. This is to prevent the conflict from escalating into a wider confrontation.
The Nayiri called for intervention from the Government of Ghana. He also appealed to civil society organisations and religious leaders. Human rights bodies and the international community are also called upon. The goal is to ensure justice, fairness, and constitutional order. Lasting peace in Bawku cannot be achieved through coercion or intimidation. Selective justice or imposed outcomes lack legitimacy and consensus. The Bawku conflict stems from a long-standing chieftaincy dispute. This dispute is between Mamprusi and Kusasi factions. It has caused recurring violence and insecurity. This impacts parts of the Upper East and North East Regions. The specific financial impact of these allegations on public finance or security spending remains unquantified in the source material. However, such widespread accusations of abuse and ongoing conflict inevitably lead to increased security costs and divert resources from development.