Lawful recognition of Bawku Naba is key to peace – Asantehene
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called for the strict enforcement of Ghana’s existing laws recognising Asigri Abugrago Azorka II as the lawful Bawku Naba, describing this as the most important step toward achieving lasting peace in Bawku and the wider Kusasi traditional area.
Presenting his mediation report on the long-running Bawku conflict at the Jubilee House, Otumfuo stressed that no chief or traditional authority is above the Constitution or the rulings of the courts.
He emphasised that laws enacted and affirmed by the Supreme Court must be upheld unless they are lawfully changed or reviewed.
The Asantehene explained that his recommendation followed extensive consultations with the Nayiri of Mamprugu, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Bawku Naba, and other traditional leaders, as part of efforts to reach a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the conflict between the Kusasi and Mamprusi groups.
According to Otumfuo, the legal status of the Bawku chieftaincy has been clearly settled under PNDC Law 75, the 1992 Constitution, and successive Supreme Court rulings, all of which recognise the Bawku Naba as the head chief of the Kusasi traditional area.
He noted that legal challenges to this position have been conclusively resolved.
While acknowledging the historical links of the Mamprugu Kingdom to parts of the Bawku area, Otumfuo said current legal realities do not allow for arrangements that contradict established law, particularly regarding claims to the Bawku skin.
He added that the Nayiri has shown readiness to make concessions in the interest of peace, describing the step as difficult but necessary.
However, Otumfuo stressed that any concessions must be consistent with the law and respect existing legal authority.
The Asantehene warned that failure to enforce the lawful status of the Bawku Naba continues to fuel insecurity in the area, noting that the conflict has become a serious security concern requiring firm and lawful action.