Traditional authorities in the Wechiau Traditional Area of the Wa West District are calling for an independent investigation into the arrest and subsequent death of youth leader Mr. Tijani Abu. Mr. Abu, known as "Master One," died while in police custody, prompting strong accusations from the chiefs. This incident has ignited significant concern within the community and among traditional leaders.
The chiefs, led by Paramount Chief Naa Imori Nandong Gomah II, stated that Mr. Abu was arrested on Saturday, July 25, 2026, by officers from the Wa West District Police Command. He was later transferred to the Upper West Regional Police Command in Wa. The arrest was linked to allegations of murder following clashes between the Kandeu and Toulu communities.
The Wechiau chiefs allege that Mr. Abu was "brutalised" while in police custody, leading to his death. They describe the incident as unlawful and are demanding accountability. This accusation points to a potential breach of human rights and due process within the justice system.
Conversely, the Upper West Regional Police Command maintains that Mr. Abu was a key suspect in the murder of two youths in Kandeu on November 23, 2025. Police stated he had been on their wanted list since May 11, 2026. This counter-narrative sets the stage for a contentious investigation.
According to the police, during interrogation, Mr. Abu admitted involvement in the killings. He also claimed the bodies had been exhumed and reburied in Burkina Faso. Police further reported that while being escorted to locate an alleged accomplice, Mr. Abu complained of a severe headache. He was then rushed to the SDA Hospital in Wa, where he was pronounced dead at 4:37 p.m. His body is currently at the Upper West Regional Hospital morgue awaiting an autopsy.
The police also stated that Mr. Abu resisted arrest and injured two officers during the operation. Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, has conveyed the Inspector-General of Police's condolences to the Wechiau Naa. This gesture aims to de-escalate tensions but has not satisfied the chiefs.
The chiefs have further accused the police of bias, alleging that more than 20 youths have been detained without evidence. They also highlight that no arrests have been made regarding the burning of the Toulu Naa's palace. These allegations suggest a pattern of unequal application of justice, which could undermine public trust in law enforcement.
Additionally, the chiefs allege that police fired live ammunition at protesters on July 28, injuring three people. Two of the injured are currently receiving treatment at the Upper West Regional Hospital. This incident further fuels the community's distrust and calls for external intervention.
The Traditional Council is demanding an independent investigation into Mr. Abu's death. They also seek the prosecution of anyone found culpable and the release of Fuseini Musah. Their statement concludes with a call for "Justice for Tijani Abu 'Master One' and peace for Wa West District."
The chiefs are appealing to several high-ranking officials and bodies for intervention. These include the Upper West Regional Minister, the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), the Member of Parliament for Wa West, and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ). They have also called upon the Inspector-General of Police, the Minister for the Interior, and President John Dramani Mahama. This broad appeal underscores the gravity of the situation and the community's desire for a fair resolution.
The outcome of this investigation will significantly impact community relations with the police and the broader perception of justice in Ghana. It will also test the government's commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring accountability within its security agencies. The unfolding events will be closely watched by human rights organizations and the public.