The Accra High Court has discharged Gregory Afoko, who was standing trial for the 2015 murder of former Upper East Regional NPP Chairman, Adams Mahama.
Afoko, together with Asabke Alangdi—who has already been convicted—was accused of attacking Mahama with acid, leading to his death on May 20, 2015.
During proceedings on Monday, December 1, Justice Marie-Louise Simmons discharged the accused after the case had suffered more than six consecutive adjournments without progress. The court also dissolved the jury, which had only five of the required seven members present.
Earlier, on February 21, 2025, the court granted Afoko bail of GH₵500,000 with two sureties, following nearly 10 years on remand. The prosecution did not oppose the application, as defence lawyers demonstrated their ability to meet the conditions.
Afoko has faced two trials—one aborted in 2019 and another which ended in a hung jury in April 2023, returning a 4-3 not-guilty split. A retrial had begun but stalled.
Case Background
According to the prosecution, tensions within the NPP escalated after Mahama led a group to disrupt a meeting involving then-party executives Paul Afoko and Kwabena Agyepong in Bolgatanga. Gregory Afoko and Asabke allegedly formed a youth group and later ambushed Mahama at his home on May 20, 2015, pouring acid on him through his vehicle window. Mahama’s wife also sustained burns while helping him.
Mahama died while being airlifted to Accra for treatment. Police investigations led to Afoko’s arrest, but Asabke initially fled.
A post-mortem report indicated Mahama died from severe acid burns and complications to his lungs.
