The High Court in Accra has refused bail for Alhaji Seidu Abagre, also known as Naa Sheriga Kulga II, ordering him to remain in the custody of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) as his case proceeds.
Alhaji Abagre, who pleaded not guilty to four charges including acting as a chief without qualification and provoking riots, faces continued detention amid concerns over national stability. The court emphasized that, while the presumption of innocence and personal liberty are constitutional rights, the specific circumstances of the case, particularly public safety and peace in Bawku warranted denying bail.
Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai argued that releasing Alhaji Abagre could exacerbate tensions in the Bawku area, linking the recent escalation of violence to his claim to the Bawku skin. He stressed that the accused is being held under a valid court order and has access to family, counsel, and medical care.
The defense, led by lawyer Martin Kpebu, challenged the detention as unconstitutional, noting that Alhaji Abagre was held for 26 days without being formally informed of charges and that the offenses carry relatively light sentences. Kpebu described his client, an elderly retired teacher with strong family ties, as posing no flight risk and argued that continued detention is unjustified.