The Vagla people, indigenous to the region known as Gonjaland, maintain a rich tradition of governance centered around their annual Traditional Council meetings. These gatherings serve as a vital platform for deliberating on pertinent issues, formulating reforms, and enhancing their overall well-being. Their history reveals a fascinating migratory pattern, originating from the Sissala area (ISALA) and initially settling at JANG (JAM). Subsequent migrations led to the establishment of settlements at KUNLOG, DAGBIGU, BEEL, CHORBANG, TEINBOL, DABORI, and TUNA, marking the first generation of Vagla settlements. These initial settlements formed the foundation of the Vagla chieftaincy system, known as VAGLA KORZEN, with Koro/Kuoro as the original chiefly titles.
The second generation of Vagla settlements emerged from the initial enclaves of JANG and DABORI, giving rise to communities like Soma, Jandra, and Sawla Zee. KUNLOG and DAGBIGU spawned settlements such as Gindaabol, Kalinbol, and Sanyari. The BEEL (Bole) and CHORBANG enclaves witnessed a southward expansion, establishing communities like Zaakpa (Sakpa), and westward expansion to Mmaa Mamdari (Mandari), Horibol, Mamful, Gbenfu, Segezi (Seripe), Sornyor, and Gorbol. Sawla, originating from DAGBIGU and KUNLOG, represents the culmination of this second wave of settlement. The chiefdoms of this second generation are collectively known as VAGLA KORZEN-NI.
Within the Vagla group, encompassing Vagla, Safalba, Choruba, and Nomee/Batigee, each community possesses its own intricate sub-structure, with sub-chiefs designated as VAGLA KOR-JIGA. Historical accounts, both written and oral, point to Bɛɛl (Bole) as the location of the first well-established Vagla chiefdom (Kora), under the leadership of the influential VAGLA KORO BAMARA. Koro Bamara’s reign from KOROBOL (KORUBOL) solidified its status as the cradle of Vagla chieftaincy, establishing Beel’s chiefdom as the model for Vagla governance structures.
The legendary VAGLA KORO BAMARA KPEE, a royal descendant of BEEL NABOMA POGU, ruled from Bɛɛl in the 13th century. His reign, blessed by POGU, marked a significant period in Vagla history. Several subsequent Koro Bamara rulers further cemented Beel’s importance. Notable among them are KORO BAMARA KAHBA, whose reign coincided with the arrival of the Ngbanya around 1700, and KORO BAMARA LURGE, who led during the Samori War of 1895-7. These historical figures highlight the continuity and adaptability of Vagla leadership.
The VAGLA TRADITIONAL COUNCIL, also known as the KORO TINDANA COUNCIL, has undergone various transformations throughout history, reflecting the evolving nature of Vagla governance. The Council comprises two distinct groups of traditional leaders: the KORO and the TINDANA, with the latter holding a position of primus inter pares. Despite this shared leadership, a hierarchy exists based on historical precedence, distinguishing between Kor-Zen, Kor-Zen-ni, and Kor-Jiga. The Council’s membership extends across the Vagla, Safalba, Choruba, and Nomee groups. While some might refer to the Council as the VAGLA SAFALBA CHORUBA AND NOMEE COUNCIL (VASCAN), its proper designation, rooted in Vagla history, remains the KORO TINDANA COUNCIL.
This Council’s reach extends across several political districts within Ghana’s Savannah Region, encompassing KORO and TINDANA leaders from Bole, Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, and the West Gonja Municipality. Furthermore, its membership includes TINDANA leaders from more distant districts like Central Gonja and possibly East Gonja, demonstrating the broad influence of this traditional governing body within the region. The KORO TINDANA COUNCIL stands as the most comprehensive traditional council in Gonja, playing a crucial role in preserving Vagla customs and traditions. The Council typically convenes at least annually, with the meeting location varying. The Council’s President, selected or elected by the members for a renewable term, leads the proceedings. This rotational presidency alternates between KORO and TINDANA leaders. Supporting the President is a Vice President, contributing to the shared leadership structure. The Registrar serves as the administrative head, overseeing the Council’s operations. Below the Registrar is the Secretary, who reports to the Registrar and manages the Council Secretariat at Korubol. The VAGLA KORO BAMARA (YAA KORO) holds a ceremonial role, presiding over Koro matters in Korubol, the cradle of Vagla chieftaincy, and acting as the executive arm of the Council. The judicial arm’s authority resides with the NATIVE COURT OF SONYO, upholding the supreme law of Gonja. All Tindana disputes are ultimately resolved at the SONYO KIPO SHRINE. The legislative arm operates on a principle of one vote per member, ensuring equitable representation within the Council.
