President John Dramani Mahama has lauded the Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, for what he described as his dignified and constructive role in efforts to restore peace in Bawku.
During a courtesy call by a delegation from the Mamprugu Traditional Council at the Jubilee House on Thursday, 17 July 2025, the President described the Nayiri’s leadership as timely and vital to national unity and traditional dialogue.
Mr Mahama commended the overlord of Mamprugu for adopting a calm and conciliatory approach despite tensions surrounding the Bawku conflict, and noted that his openness to compromise was helping build trust among the parties involved.
“Let me commend Your Royal Majesty for the dignified and statesmanlike manner in which you have responded to these tensions. Your calm and reasonable voice has been a source of guidance to many. I commend you for the concessions you are willing to make in order to see lasting peace in Bawku,” the President said.
Mr Mahama revealed that he had also met with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who is currently leading a traditional mediation process between the Mamprusi and Kusasi.
He stated that the Asantehene had spoken positively about the Nayiri’s role in the behind-the-scenes dialogue and acknowledged his contribution to the progress achieved so far.
“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,” he said.
The Bawku conflict, which has spanned decades, primarily stems from a chieftaincy dispute between the Mamprusi and Kusasi ethnic groups. In recent years, the conflict has escalated, disrupting social life and economic activity. Armed youth groups operate in the area, civil servants are reluctant to accept postings, and many traders and professionals have left the town.
“Bawku, which has always been a booming and prosperous commercial centre, is now a pale shadow of itself,” Mr Mahama said. “Many professionals have fled the area. Public service workers are refusing to be posted there.”
In response to the worsening situation, the government is backing Otumfuo Osei Tutu’s mediation efforts, which formally began in April 2025.
The Asantehene has so far hosted delegations from both factions at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi. These meetings, which marked the first direct talks between the groups in years, have been credited with reducing tensions and reviving dialogue.
In June, the Asantehene met again with the Kusaug Traditional Council, reinforcing the importance of traditional mechanisms in settling long-standing disputes.
Mr Mahama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the peace process. He called on traditional authorities, civil society organisations, and youth leaders to promote peace, dialogue, and national cohesion.
“The government remains resolute in restoring lasting peace and stability in Bawku. This includes strengthening the security presence, supporting conflict resolution efforts, and engaging more deeply with traditional, religious, and civic leaders,” he said.
He further assured the delegation that his administration would continue to work with the Mamprugu Traditional Council to ensure that infrastructure, education, and economic development initiatives in the North East Region remain on course despite the conflict.
“We 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 issues through dialogue,” the President said.
