Bawku peace talks: Mahama lauds Nayiri's support to Otumfuo

President John Dramani Mahama has praised the Overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Yiri, for his significant backing of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in ongoing initiatives to achieve lasting peace in the conflict-hit Bawku area.

Addressing a delegation from the Nayiri at the Jubilee House, President Mahama disclosed that he had recently engaged with the Asantehene and described Naa Yiri’s leadership and collaboration as crucial to advancing a traditional resolution to the long-standing dispute.

“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 said. “I commend you for the concessions you have been willing to make in order to seek lasting peace in Bawku.”

The President highlighted the dire situation in Bawku, warning of the serious threat it poses to both regional cohesion and national security.

“I cannot speak of peace and development in the North without touching on the situation in Bawku,” he said.

“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. Nobody is happy about this situation. Youth move around on motorcycles with suffocated assault rifles and fire indiscriminately.”

President Mahama noted that all communities in the area have suffered as a result of the violence.

“The conflict has affected everyone Mamprusi, Kusasi, Moeshies, Hausas, and all other ethnic groups living in the area. Many professionals have fled the area and public service workers are refusing postings to Bawku,” he said.

Nevertheless, he commended Naa Yiri for maintaining composure and statesmanship amid the crisis.

“Let me commend Your Royal Majesty for the dignified and statelike manner in which you have responded to these tensions,” Mahama said. “Your calm and reasonable voice has been a source of guidance to many, and I sincerely appreciate your commitment to peace.”

He called on all participants in the mediation process to act with urgency.

“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 said.

Reiterating the government’s determination to restore calm, he outlined efforts to reinforce security and deepen dialogue.

“Government remains resolute in restoring lasting peace and stability in Bawku. This includes enhancing the security presence, supporting conflict resolution mechanisms, and fostering deeper dialogue with all traditional, religious, and civic stakeholders.”

President Mahama emphasized that resolving the Bawku conflict is a national priority that demands joint commitment.

“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 said.

“I wish to assure you that government will continue to rely on your wisdom and partnership in navigating these sensitive matters in a manner that upholds human dignity and preserves the unity of our people.”