President John Dramani Mahama has praised the Overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Yiri, for his instrumental role in supporting Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s traditional mediation efforts aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict in Bawku.
Speaking at the Jubilee House during a visit by a delegation from the Nayiri, Mahama disclosed that he had recently met with the Asantehene and received a positive update on Naa Yiri’s collaborative approach in pushing for a peaceful resolution.
“I was with His Royal Majesty Nana Osei Tutu II two days ago, and he briefed me on the cooperation you have given him in finding a final traditional solution to the conflict,” Mahama noted. “I commend you for the concessions you have been willing to make in order to seek lasting peace in Bawku.”
He described the situation in Bawku as dire, stressing that peace in the northern town is critical to regional and national stability.
“The protracted conflict in Bawku continues to pose a grave challenge to our national peace and regional harmony. Bawku, which has always been the booming and prosperous commercial center, is now a pale shadow of itself,” the President lamented.
Highlighting the impact of the conflict, Mahama pointed out how violence has disrupted lives and displaced communities. “Nobody is happy about this situation. Youth move around on motorcycles with assault rifles and fire indiscriminately,” he stated.
He emphasized that the crisis has affected all ethnic groups, from Mamprusi to Kusasi, Moeshie, and Hausa, and driven professionals and public workers away from the area.
Despite these challenges, Mahama acknowledged Naa Yiri’s calm and statesmanlike conduct. “Your calm and reasonable voice has been a source of guidance to many, and I sincerely appreciate your commitment to peace,” he said.
Mahama called on all parties in the mediation process to act with urgency, urging, “I take this opportunity to humbly urge all stakeholders to speed up the mediation process so that peace can return to Bawku in order that residents can return to their normal lives as soon as possible.”
He reaffirmed the government’s determination to support peace-building initiatives through security reinforcement, dialogue, and collaboration with traditional, religious, and civic leaders.
“I believe that peace in Bawku is a matter of national importance and that it requires our collective resolve so that justice will prevail and that we will resolve our issues by dialogue,” he added.
Mahama concluded by pledging continued partnership with Naa Yiri in ensuring a peaceful and united Ghana.
