An Accra High Court judge, Justice Mrs Kizita Naa Koowah Quarshie, has expressed disappointment at the low number of jurors present for the murder trial of Ben Lord Ababio, a self-proclaimed traditional ruler, and Nana Kofi Amo Gyekye. The court had only nine potential jurors, which the judge deemed “not encouraging”.¹
As a result, the judge ordered the Registrar of the court to reassemble the jurors, allowing the court to empanel them for the trial to commence. The accused persons have the right to select and reject jurors of their choice.
The trial, which was initially set to begin, has been adjourned to December 18, 2024. Ababio and Gyekye are standing trial for their alleged involvement in a land dispute that led to the death of Lance Corporal Michael Danso of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Ababio is facing charges of conspiracy and murder, while Gyekye is charged with conspiracy. Ababio has been remanded into lawful custody, and Gyekye is on GHC One million bail with two sureties to be justified.
The incident occurred on April 30, 2024, when Lance Corporal Michael Danso and two colleagues reported a trespass at the Millennium City Police Station. Ababio appeared at the station and opened fire on Lance Corporal Danso, killing him instantly. Ababio was disarmed and arrested, leading to the arrest of Gyekye.
