Bunkpurugu chieftaincy dispute: Chief Justice orders transfer of case to Tamale over security fears

The Chief Justice of Ghana has ordered the transfer of the Bunkpurugu chieftaincy dispute case from the High Court in Nalerigu to Tamale due to security concerns. The decision was made after defendants in the case, including Elijah Saan, expressed fears for their lives after receiving intelligence that they could be killed if they appeared in court in Nalerigu.

The case was initially scheduled to be heard on October 23, 2026, but has now been moved to Tamale. This transfer comes amid heightened tensions in Bunkpurugu following a disputed enskinment event on September 14, 2026, which resulted in violence and injuries. The Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area has also filed an application at the High Court in Nalerigu seeking to commit four individuals for contempt of court over the installation.

The ongoing dispute between the Jamong and Jafouk royal families has contributed to persistent tensions in the area, with reports of farm destruction, arson, and residents fleeing their homes due to fears of further violence.

Brief written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.