Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has raised concerns over the continued detention of the rival chief of Mamprusi, Alhaji Seidu Abagre, saying he has been unable to meet his client since his arrest.

Alhaji Abagre was removed from Bawku Township in the Upper East Region by personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) on December 24, 2025, following recommendations in the Otumfuo Asantehene Osei Tutu II mediation report on the protracted chieftaincy conflict

Through his lawyers, led by Kpebu, Abagre filed an application for Habeas Corpus, seeking to compel the Interior Minister and the National Intelligence Bureau to produce him before the High Court and justify his continued detention.

Addressing journalists, Kpebu explained that despite repeated attempts, he has “not met or set eyes” on Alhaji Abagre since his arrest.

 He added that only Abagre’s eldest son had been allowed brief contact—a development he described as procedurally inadequate given the gravity of the situation.

Kpebu stressed that as Nayiri, a traditional ruler installed by the King of the Mamprugu Kingdom, Alhaji Seidu Abagre requires full legal access and due process.

 He noted that in matters concerning the Nayiri, formal communication should come from state authorities, not family members.

The legal team has therefore approached the High Court to ensure due process is followed and constitutional rights are respected.

Kpebu said the challenge seeks clarity on the grounds for Abagre’s arrest and aims to protect his client’s rights throughout the proceedings.

Meanwhile, in court on Monday, January 12, 2026, the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, stated that due to the public nature of the case, the office has decided to take steps to address the matter expeditiously.