A brewing storm in the Agave Traditional Area has erupted into a legal battle, with high-profile figures entangled in accusations of contempt of court. Businessman Alfred Agbesi Woyome and his brother, Kobena Mensah Woyome, have initiated a contempt suit in the Sogakope High Court. But what exactly is the heart of this dispute? Let's dive in.
The defendants in this case include the Sogakope District Police Commander (through the Inspector General of Police) and the South Tongu District Security Council (DISEC), represented by the District Chief Executive (DCE). The core of the matter? Alleged failure to adhere to a court-ordered prohibition of a demonstration.
The legal action, filed on December 3, 2025, hinges on the argument that the police and DISEC disregarded a clear directive from the Volta Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to halt all planned demonstrations in Agave. The aim was to prevent the escalation of conflict.
Background to the Conflict
According to Mr. Woyome's affidavit, several individuals – Vorleto Raphael Yao, Moses Avusu, Kwadzo Ayetor, and Amexoo Agbitor (aka Chief Engineer) – are accused of organizing a demonstration against the applicants. The demonstrators accused them of interfering in chieftaincy affairs within the Agave State. Evidence presented included a letter from the organizers requesting police support, which was initially granted by the District Police Commander.
However, a rival group, the Concerned Youth of Agave, opposed this planned demonstration and sought police permission for a counter-demonstration on the same day – November 24, 2025. Their request was denied. And this is the part most people miss...
REGSEC Steps In
Recognizing the potential for clashes between the two groups, the Volta Regional Minister, acting through REGSEC, intervened. On November 21, 2025, REGSEC issued a directive. This directive instructed the Sogakope District Police Command to withdraw the approval previously given to the first group. Furthermore, the DCE for South Tongu, Madam Victoria Dzeklo, was instructed to ensure DISEC communicated and enforced the suspension of all demonstrations. This directive is a key piece of evidence in the court documents.
Mr. Woyome alleges that the police and DISEC failed to comply with REGSEC’s directive, which he claims constitutes willful disobedience of a lawful order, forming the basis for the contempt application.
Historical Context: Chieftaincy at the Heart
The affidavit also delves into the historical context of the dispute, specifically highlighting tensions related to the installation and outdooring of the Paramount Chief of Agave, Torgbega Hedihor Hlitabo IV. The applicants cite traditional authorities who were involved in the Paramount Chief's installation in 2012. These included key elders and custodians from the Tsala and Fievie clans, such as Tator Agbodemegbe, Torgbe Akpli, Torgbe Kortorokor Vadze, Awadada Korwuvi Adzove (father of Stan Dogbe), Torgbe Hadzidodo, Mr. Daniel Adiabo, and Torgbe Ahetokpegla.
Mr. Woyome's involvement began during the 2022 outdooring ceremony, nearly a decade after the installation. He stated that elders warned that delaying the outdooring beyond 10 years could bring spiritual or social consequences under Agave custom.
The applicants argue that the planned demonstration and press event at the old palace at Degenu – a historically sensitive location – risked inflaming passions and could spark bloodshed, especially considering earlier clashes involving youth from the Dabala area. But here's where it gets controversial...
The demonstration's potential to escalate conflict is the central point of contention. The applicants believed the demonstration could ignite tensions, particularly given the sensitive location and past conflicts. What are your thoughts? Do you believe the police and DISEC acted appropriately? Share your perspective in the comments below!
