The Accra High Court has granted bail to Gregory Afoko, who has spent almost a decade on remand while facing trial for his alleged involvement in the murder of the late Upper East Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Adams Mahama.
The court, presided over by Justice Marie-Louise Simmons on Friday, February 21, set the bail at GH₵500,000 with two sureties, one of whom must justify with a landed property.
Court’s Bail Conditions
- Afoko must produce two sureties, one with a landed property.
- He is required to report to the police investigator on the case.
- His previous bail applications had been denied under the previous NPP administration.
The prosecution did not oppose the bail application, as Afoko’s defence team provided sufficient proof that the conditions could be met. His brother, former NPP National Chairman Paul Afoko, has agreed to stand as surety, assuring the court that Gregory has a fixed place of abode.
Background of the Case
Afoko and his co-defendant, Asabke Alangdi, are being retried for murder after the first trial ended in a hung jury on April 27, 2023, with a 4-3 not-guilty verdict in his favor. The retrial is currently underway, with the next hearing scheduled for March 5, 2025.
The two were accused of pouring acid on Adams Mahama on May 20, 2015, leading to his death. According to the prosecution, they ambushed Mahama at his residence in Bolgatanga, where he was attacked with acid. His wife, Hajia Zenabu Adams, also suffered burns while trying to assist him. Mahama later died while being airlifted to Accra for medical treatment.
Prosecution’s Account
- On May 14, 2015, Gregory’s brother, Paul Afoko, and then-NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong were attacked in Bolgatanga by thugs allegedly mobilized by Mahama.
- Afoko and Alangdi later formed a group to protect individuals perceived to be against then-NPP flagbearer Nana Akufo-Addo.
- On May 20, 2015, they allegedly ambushed Mahama at his home and poured acid on him when he rolled down his car window.
- Mahama identified his attackers before succumbing to his injuries.
Afoko was arrested shortly after the incident, while Alangdi fled with his wife, abandoning their baby in the process. A post-mortem report confirmed Mahama died from shock due to extensive acid burns.
