The Mamprugu Traditional Council is calling for a thorough, independent investigation into serious allegations. These include unlawful killings, disappearances, torture, and abuse of power. The concerns are directly linked to the ongoing conflict in Bawku. The council also wants the government to ensure all actions follow the law.
These demands were voiced at a press conference led by Nayiri Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga. He is the Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area. The press conference took place at his palace in Nalerigu. The Nayiri expressed worries about how the Bawku chieftaincy crisis is managed. He also alleged mistreatment of Mamprusi people and misuse of state power. He stated that the conflict's handling has damaged trust. It has also increased insecurity. Questions have arisen about achieving lasting peace.
Peace has been difficult to find in Bawku. This is true even with mediation efforts led by the Asantehene. The area continues to experience killings and abductions. The uncertainty around the peace process has worsened tensions. This is despite concerns raised by Mamprugu leaders. The Nayiri alleged that voices disagreeing with the mediation were silenced. He also claimed some media outlets were blocked from showing different views.
The Nayiri refuted claims of returning peace. He said these claims do not match reality. He raised alarms about arbitrary arrests and unlawful detentions. These incidents allegedly targeted Mamprusi individuals after the Inspector-General of Police visited Bawku. He named Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu, Seidu Safianu, and Shamsudeen Mohammed. The circumstances of their deaths are disturbing. He wants democratic institutions to examine these events. More than 40 Mamprusi individuals have been arrested. They were moved to Accra since last December. The council finds these arrests questionable. Some individuals are still missing.
The Overlord also noted unequal security escorts for travelers. This creates perceptions of bias. It erodes confidence in state institutions. He specifically mentioned the arrest of Alhaji Seidu Abagre. He called for his immediate return to Bawku. Concerns were also raised about curfews. Other issues include alleged military brutality and selective arrests in Nalerigu and surrounding areas.
Lasting peace at Bawku cannot be forced. It cannot be achieved through intimidation or unfairness. The Chief argued that true peace needs fairness. It requires following the constitution and engaging in dialogue. Mutual respect is also essential. He urged the government and other groups to intervene. This includes civil society, the National Peace Council, traditional leaders, and human rights bodies. The international community was also asked to help. This is to prevent the situation from worsening.
The Nayiri confirmed that their previous proposals for resolving the conflict remain available. He believes implementing these proposals could lead to sustainable peace. The council's call highlights deep-seated issues within the Bawku conflict. These involve allegations of state-sanctioned abuses and a fractured peace process. The economic impact of such prolonged conflict is significant. It disrupts trade, investment, and local livelihoods in the affected regions. The demands for accountability signal a critical moment for government response to address these grievances.