Sanguli chieftaincy dispute: Juteeb Royal Family Challenges Use of Usangulbore Title Amid Sanguli Dispute
The Juteeb Royal Family of Sanguli in the Northern Region has appealed to 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 traditional adjudication process currently underway.
Addressing journalists at a press conference held at Dondoni in Sanguli on September 11, 2026, 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 began in 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 directed the parties to present relevant documents. However, the process was interrupted by the death of the overlord.
Obor Ntingbanki Baliban Mbayi II explained that the matter was later brought before the Dagbon Traditional Council, whose Judicial Committee has jurisdiction over the dispute. He said hearings had recently been held, during which the parties were advised to refrain from using the title Usangulbore until a determination was reached.
He said concerns resurfaced following a homecoming event organised by the Binambom Family at Tatindo, where promotional materials allegedly described John Kumayi as the Chief of Sanguli. He further alleged that during a meeting with the District Security Committee, the Tatale/Sanguli District Chief Executive, Merry Tagba, referred to an alleged 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 neither received nor been notified of the alleged letter. The family also claimed that during its last meeting with the DCE, district security personnel who had a fair understanding of the dispute were excluded, while security personnel from Zabzugu were invited. The family appealed to the DCE and other opinion leaders to remain neutral and avoid 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 further appealed to the families, chiefs and elders involved in the dispute to maintain peace and refrain from statements or actions that could heighten tensions while the case remains pending.
Source: Northwebonline.com
