N/R: Juteeb family calls for restraint in Sanguli Chieftaincy dispute

The Juteeb Royal Family of Sanguli in the Northern Region has called on all parties involved in the Sanguli chieftaincy dispute to exercise restraint and allow the Judicial Committee of the Dagbon Traditional Council to conclude the case.

The family says the continued use of the title Usangulbore by individuals involved in the dispute could create tension and undermine the ongoing traditional adjudication process.

Addressing journalists at a press conference held at Dondoni, Sanguli, the plaintiff for the Juteeb Family, Obor Ntingbanki Baliban Mbayi II, said the Sanguli Skin — a divisional skin under the Yaa Naa — became vacant following the death of Obor Naa Samali Jangboja of Dondoni in 1999.

According to him, the succession dispute dates back to 2002, when John Kumayi, also known as Gabujiah, Chief of Tatindo and traditional head of the Binambom Family, allegedly sought recognition as the nominee for the vacant skin. He said the Juteeb Family subsequently petitioned the late Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani, who requested that the parties present relevant documents, but the process was interrupted by the death of the overlord.

Obor Ntingbanki Baliban Mbayi II said the matter was later brought before the Dagbon Traditional Council, whose Judicial Committee has jurisdiction over the dispute. He explained that hearings have recently been held, with parties advised to refrain from using the title Usangulbore until the case is determined.

The concerns, he said, were renewed following a homecoming event organised by the Binambom Family at Tatindo, where promotional materials allegedly described John Kumayi as Chief of Sanguli.

He further alleged that during a meeting with the District Security Committee, the Tatale/Sanguli District Chief Executive, Mary Tagba, referred to a purported 2018 letter from the then Kampakuya Naa recognising John Kumayi as Usangulbore pending the resolution of the case.

The Juteeb Family expressed concern that it had not received or been notified of the alleged letter. The family appealed to the DCE and other opinion leaders to remain neutral and refrain from actions that could interfere with the authority of the Dagbon Traditional Council.

The plaintiff urged all parties to present their evidence before the Judicial Committee and allow the appropriate traditional processes to determine the legitimate occupant of the Sanguli Skin.

He also appealed to the families, chiefs and elders involved to maintain peace and avoid statements or actions that could heighten tensions while the case remains pending.