Boko Haram Threats Erupt in Ghana Chieftaincy Dispute

Tensions have risen in Ghana following online threats invoking the extremist group Boko Haram, connected to a long-running and violent chieftaincy dispute in the Bakwu area.

The threats emerged on social media after a High Court in Accra denied bail and remanded Alhaji Seidu Abagre on Monday. Abagre, a member of the Kusasi ethnic group, is accused of impersonating the paramount chief of Bakwu, known as the Bakwu Naaba—a stool officially recognized by the government as belonging to the Mamprusi ethnic group.

The chieftaincy conflict between the Kusasi and Mamprusi has fueled violent clashes for decades. Authorities arrested Abagre in a military-backed operation on December 24, 2025, after he allegedly paraded himself as chief, charges his supporters dispute.

Following the court’s ruling, some of Abagre’s supporters issued statements threatening to “import Boko Haram” into Ghana unless he is released. While sources within Ghana maintain the threats are rhetorical anger with no actual terrorist links, the warnings have caused alarm, particularly among neighboring Nigerians urging serious government intervention to prevent escalation.

The case is scheduled to resume on February 2.