Help bring peace to Bawku - Minister appeals to Yagbonwura, Ya-Na
The Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Bi-Awuribe, has appealed to the Overlords of the Gonja and Dagbon Kingdoms, Yagbonwura, Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, and Ya-Na Abukari II, to intervene in the Bawku crisis to help bring lasting peace to the area.
He said the protracted chieftaincy dispute was taking a toll on lives and the growth of the area, and said with the influence and authority of the two kings, their intervention could contribute to an amicable resolution of the intermittent conflict to pave the way for development.
“I entreat the two kings to explore ways to help our brothers in Mamprugu and Bawku. The ongoing shootings and killings of our own people must stop,” he added.
Event
Mr Bi-Awuribe made the appeal when the Ya-Na paid a historic visit to the Yagbonwura at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo last Sunday.
The reciprocal visit was aimed at strengthening the ties between the two kingdoms, promoting peace and accelerated development.
The Yagbonwura was the first to visit the Ya-Na at the Gbewah Palace in Yendi sometime last year.
Last Sunday’s meeting in Damongo was characterised by a vibrant display of culture with great panache.
Among the issues discussed during the meeting were peace, development and the general well-being of their people.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to fostering collaboration for the greater good of their respective kingdoms.
Commitment
The minister said that the government was committed to supporting traditional leaders in their effort to bring peace to troubled areas in the north, especially Bawku and surrounding communities.
“The peaceful co-existence between the Gonja and Dagbon kingdoms should serve as an example for our brothers and sisters in Walewale and Bawku," he said.
Appreciation
The Yagbonwura expressed appreciation to the Ya-Na for the visit, describing it as a significant step towards greater unity and understanding among traditional rulers and citizens, particularly in the northern parts of the country.
“This visit serves as a reminder to our youth and future leaders to strengthen their bonds of friendship and work tirelessly to promote peace and development in our regions,” he said.
Commendation
For his part, the Ya-Na commended the Yagbonwura for the warm reception accorded him and his retinue of chiefs, elders and subjects.
He called for deeper collaboration in key areas such as education, economic empowerment, tourism and security.
The Ya-Na further stressed the need for the two kingdoms to work together to address common challenges such as poverty, illiteracy and underdevelopment.
