President John Dramani Mahama has commended the Overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Yiri, for his vital support to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in the ongoing efforts to bring lasting peace to the troubled Bawku area.

Speaking at the Jubilee House during a visit by a high-powered delegation from the Nayiri, the President revealed that he had earlier met with the Asantehene, President Mahama described Naa Yiri’s leadership and cooperation as critical in advancing a traditional solution to the protracted conflict.

“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 painted a grim picture of Bawku’s situation, emphasising the severity of the conflict that continues to threaten regional harmony and national peace. “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 stressed that the violence has affected all ethnic groups in the area.
“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.

Despite the challenges, the President praised Naa Yiri’s dignified and calm response to tensions.
“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.”

President Mahama urged all parties involved in the mediation process to act swiftly. “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.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security.

“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 emphasised that peace in Bawku is a matter of national importance requiring collective action.
“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.”