President John Dramani Mahama has expressed satisfaction with the progress made in efforts to resolve the longstanding chieftaincy conflict in Bawku.
On Tuesday, December 16, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, presented the findings and recommendations of his mediation to the President at Jubilee House. The mediation sought a lasting solution to the protracted dispute and concluded that the existing legal and constitutional frameworks must be upheld to secure peace.
In his report, Otumfuo detailed extensive consultations with all parties, including the Nayiri (Overlord of Mamprugu), the Bawku Naba, and chiefs from the Kusasi communities.
A key demand from the Nayiri was the transfer of certain towns, including Bawku, under his authority for enskinment. However, after reviewing historical and legal contexts, the mediation affirmed the Supreme Court’s ruling that Asigri Azoka remains the lawful Bawku Naba.
Otumfuo recommended that Seidu Abagre be recalled to Nalerigu by the Nayiri to assume another traditional role at the Nayiri’s palace, with state assistance. Alternatively, Abagre may remain in Bawku as an ordinary citizen but must not claim the title of Bawku Naba.
The Asantehene emphasised the constitutional duty of all, including traditional rulers, to respect the law and called on the Nayiri to recognise the legal authority of the Bawku skin, underscoring that such recognition is essential for lasting peace in the conflict-prone area.
President Mahama, while acknowledging the report, noted that further engagements would be necessary to address remaining issues. He stressed that all parties must remember the process is a mediation aimed at amicable resolution.
