The escalating conflict in Bawku, a town in the Upper East Region of Ghana, has prompted a strong call for government intervention by the Overlord of Mamprugu, His Royal Majesty Naa Bohaga Mahami Abdulai Sheriga. Addressing the media from his palace in Nalerigu on April 17, 2024, the Nayiri expressed deep concern over the persistent violence and urged the government to take decisive action to restore peace and security in the troubled area. He emphasized the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens and warned that if the government failed to act swiftly and effectively, the people of Mamprugu would be forced to take matters into their own hands to safeguard their lives and property. The Nayiri’s statement underscored the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for a comprehensive and robust response from the authorities.
The Nayiri’s address detailed specific recommendations for the government to address the security challenges in Bawku. He stressed the importance of bolstering security presence in the region by deploying adequate personnel and providing them with the necessary logistics. He pointed out that the police and military command in Bawku had expressed concerns regarding insufficient resources, hindering their ability to effectively maintain law and order. Furthermore, he advocated for empowering security forces to operate without undue political interference, ensuring their actions are guided by professional judgment and the rule of law. He also highlighted the importance of safeguarding economic freedom in the region, recognizing that economic stability is crucial for fostering peace and development.
The Nayiri’s recommendations extended to specific operational measures to enhance security along the volatile Bolgatanga-Bawku-Poulimakom corridor. He proposed establishing strategic checkpoints along this route to monitor movement and deter criminal activities. He also suggested setting up police posts in key locations to provide a more localized and responsive security presence. Furthermore, he recommended unifying the transport systems to minimize the vulnerability of commuters to attacks by armed bandits. These measures, he argued, would contribute significantly to improving security and restoring confidence among the population.
Beyond security measures, the Nayiri addressed the need for a more effective and balanced approach to conflict resolution. He expressed concern over the perceived inadequacy of the Inspector-General of Police’s recent visit to Bawku, criticizing the lack of strong condemnation of those responsible for the violence. He also lamented the absence of due recognition for the security officers who had lost their lives in the line of duty. He argued that this perceived lack of support for security personnel could demoralize them and undermine their efforts to restore peace. He emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and acknowledging the sacrifices made by those working to maintain order.
The Nayiri’s address also included a call for unity and restraint. While urging the government to act decisively, he also appealed to the youth of Mamprugu to exercise restraint and uphold the values of peace. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful coexistence as essential elements in resolving the conflict. He stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective efforts that prioritize understanding and reconciliation. His call for restraint reflects a commitment to de-escalating tensions and fostering an environment conducive to finding sustainable solutions.
Finally, the Nayiri invoked a spiritual dimension to his appeal, calling for divine wisdom to guide President John Dramani Mahama and the Otumfuo, the Asantehene, in their efforts to promote unity and peace throughout the nation. This invocation underscores the deep-seated cultural and spiritual significance of peace in Ghanaian society. It also highlights the importance of leadership in fostering harmony and reconciliation. The Nayiri’s comprehensive address, encompassing security recommendations, a call for accountability, an appeal for restraint, and a plea for divine guidance, underscores the multifaceted nature of the Bawku conflict and the urgent need for a comprehensive and concerted effort to restore peace.
