Justice Samuel Asare-Nyako Orders Arrest of Berenger Aka Flanton (Awulae Blay IX) as Legal Battle Intensifies

The High Court of Justice in Sekondi has taken a firm stance in an ongoing chieftaincy dispute by issuing a bench warrant for the arrest of Awulae Blay IX, popularly known as Berenger Aka Flanton that he had deliberately absented himself from court proceedings.

The ruling, delivered by His Lordship Justice Samuel Asare-Nyako on June 22, 2026, arose from a case involving Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III, who is pursuing legal action against the respondent.

Proceedings were attended by representatives of both parties. The applicant, Awulae Amihere Kpanyinli III, was represented by Nana Obo Atta Kukuamoa IV, while Ms. Evette Akuba Brew, holding brief for Mr. John Mercer, appeared as counsel for the applicant. The respondent was represented by Mr. Cephas Ato Atsiakorba, who held brief for Mr. Abdul Aziz Seidu.

Addressing the court, counsel for the respondent explained that his client had travelled to the United States of America to engage the applicant in discussions intended to resolve the matter outside the courtroom, and cited this as the reason for his absence.

That submission, however, was strongly contested by counsel for the applicant, who maintained that the applicant remained in Ghana and argued that the explanation offered by the respondent’s legal team was inaccurate. The applicant subsequently sought an extension of time to file witness statements, a request mirrored by the respondent’s counsel.

Having carefully considered the submissions from both sides, the court held the view that the respondent’s absence was deliberate and unjustified.

Consequently, Justice Samuel Asare-Nyako ordered that a bench warrant be issued for the immediate arrest of Berenger alias Flanton wherever he may be found within Ghana’s jurisdiction.

In addition, the court granted both parties ten days to complete and file their witness statements to aid the smooth progression of the case.

The matter has since been adjourned to July 14, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., when proceedings are expected to resume.

The latest court directive underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring compliance with legal processes and preserving the integrity of judicial proceedings in matters of significant public interest.