Nai Atopi Kwashie Abbey VII, Chief of Kwashie Abbey and Mpoahene of the Awutu Traditional Area, has made history as the first and only Central Region chief to be called to the Ghana Bar. Known in private life as Michael Qwabena Larbi, he is also a police detective and an expert in banking and finance.
A total of 824 new lawyers were sworn in during the ceremony at the Accra International Conference Centre on October, 10, 2025. The event drew traditional leaders, ministers of state, CEOs of state institutions, journalists and media professionals among family and friends, highlighting the growing intersection between law and public service in Ghana.
Speaking to journalists about what the legal profession means to him, Nai Atopi Kwashie Abbey VII said: “The legal profession is a noble profession and it means so much to me. Honestly, having come this far, I would first like to thank God because it has not been easy at all. A very tough journey. That is not to discourage anyone pursuing a legal career. You need to understand the laws of this country to be able to operate effectively. In everything we do in life, one way or another, the law runs around it, and so it’s right that you understand the law to guide yourself properly and to know when you are overstepping your bounds.
“To lead as a chief and to function effectively within my traditional area, my community and my family, it is crucial that I gain full command and understanding of the law, and so it means so much to me in that direction.”
On how he intends to combine his legal career with his traditional leadership role, Nai Atopi said, “There are some land disputes regarding boundaries that have lasted for years. At the moment we are before the Supreme Court. To take certain decisions moving forward as a chief, you need to be well-versed in the law. If you are a chief and you know the law, you will not be selling lands indiscriminately or engaging in double-sale transactions and other infractions without knowing the consequences. You will be able to guide your people properly.
“There are several matters that will come before a chief, some are legal and you might not have the jurisdiction to handle them. If it is criminal, the chief must not intervene. Knowing how to draw the fine lines is important. Understanding the law and becoming a lawyer is therefore very important. If you are a chief and do not know your law, you risk throwing away community, family and stool property without knowing the dangers you are causing to future generations. The law has become a very strong tool for defence and justice. If you don’t know your law and you cry for justice, how do you get that justice? It is a solid rock one must rely on.
“I have a background in banking and finance, but I need the law. Doctors are learning the law, so chiefs too must join the wagon. We are all learning so that nobody will use the law to cheat us. I will entreat my people to invest in education. Becoming a lawyer is not just for myself; it is to raise belief in education among my people. If ‘Nai Atopi’ at this stage still wants to pursue education and has become a lawyer, they have no excuse to relent or stay back. We must take education seriously.”
The ceremony was led by Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe‑Bonnie, who administered the professional oath and personally presented qualifying certificates to the new lawyers. The auditorium was filled with proud families, friends and well‑wishers.
Addressing the newly qualified lawyers, Acting Chief Justice Baffoe‑Bonnie urged them to uphold the core values of the profession. “You have chosen a path that demands courage, but it is a path that leads to purpose and fulfilling greatness. Congratulations again, our newly qualified lawyers. May you serve with humility and serve with purpose. Above all, let your integrity shine,” he said.
Nai Atopi Kwashie Abbey VII’s call to the Bar marks a notable moment for traditional leadership in Ghana, underscoring a trend of chiefs seeking formal legal training to better protect communal rights and navigate modern governance challenges.
