Asantehene: Lawful recognition of Bawku Naba key to peace
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has recommended the strict enforcement of Ghana’s existing laws recognising Asigri Abugrago Azorka II as the lawful Bawku Naba, describing it as the most critical step toward restoring lasting peace in Bawku and the wider Kusasi traditional area.
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In his mediation report on the protracted Bawku conflict, presented to government officials at the Jubilee House, Otumfuo stressed that no chief or traditional authority stands above the Constitution or the decisions of the courts.
He emphasised that the government must uphold laws duly enacted and affirmed by the Supreme Court until they are lawfully changed or reviewed.
The Asantehene’s recommendation followed extensive engagements with the Nayiri of Mamprugu, Nayiri-Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, the Bawku Naba, and other traditional leaders as part of efforts to find an amicable and sustainable resolution to years of violence between Kusasi and Mamprusi groups.
According to Otumfuo, the legal position on the Bawku chieftaincy has long been settled through PNDC Law 75, the 1992 Constitution, and subsequent Supreme Court rulings, all of which recognise the Bawku Naba as the head chief with jurisdiction over the Kusasi traditional area. He noted that attempts to challenge this position have been conclusively closed by the courts.
While acknowledging the historical ties of the Mamprugu Kingdom to lands in the Bawku area, the Asantehene said current legal realities make it untenable to pursue arrangements that contradict settled law, particularly in relation to claims to the Bawku skin.
Otumfuo further disclosed that the Nayiri has expressed willingness to make concessions in the interest of peace, describing the decision as difficult but necessary.
He, however, maintained that any such concessions must align with the law and respect existing legal authority.
He warned that the continued failure to enforce the lawful status of the Bawku Naba is fuelling insecurity in the area, describing the conflict as an escalating security concern that requires firm and lawful action.
