Nayiri, Yagbonwura commit to peaceful resolution of Lukula conflict
The Overlords of Mamprugu and Gonja, Nayiri Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, and the Yagbonwura, Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, have resolved to find a lasting solution to the protracted land dispute that has plagued Lukula, a farming community in the North Gonja District in the Savanna Region for over a decade now.
Advertisement
The two revered traditional leaders pledged their commitment to resolve the matter to ensure peaceful co-existence between Mamprusis and Gonjas. The recurrent disputes between the two ethnic groups over legitimate ownership of the community had resulted in the loss of some lives and the destruction of property.
The conflict, which had also led to the displacement of many residents, is rooted in historical and territorial disagreements. The dispute involves the Wasipe Traditional Area in the Savannah Region and the Soo Traditional Area in the North East Region.
The Lukula community is on the boundary of the two traditional areas.
Historic visit
The commitment was made when the Yagbonwura paid a historic visit to the Nayiri at his Palace in Nalerigu last Sunday. The visit, which is said to be the second of its kind in the history of the two kingdoms, sought to deepen existing relations between them and also promote peaceful co-existence between the people of the two tribes.
The Yagbonwura earlier paid a similar visit to the Gbewah Palace in Yendi where he interacted with the Ya-Na, Abukari II, a few weeks ago. The Nayiri palace, venue of the meeting, was a scene of rich cultural display and traditional regalia after the Yagbonwura and his retinue of chiefs and elders were given a warm welcome by an enthusiastic crowd, underlining the importance of the occasion.
By 9:00 a.m, the venue was filled to capacity with an ecstatic crowd who waited patiently for the arrival of the Yagbonwura. When the Yagbonwura finally did arrive, the entire Nalerigu town went agog with people rushing to catch a glimpse of the chief to be part of history.
Measures
The Yagbonwura said that the people of Lukula had suffered enough from the negative impact of the violence and could not bear it any longer.
Other Trending Stories
He said he would, therefore, initiate a series of discussions to help address the underlying issues to foster mutual understanding and solutions to the conflict.
"Today marks a new chapter in our relationship. We have recognised the futility of continued discord and are committed to finding common ground through dialogue and cooperation,” he said.
Mutual dialogue
For his part, the Nayiri lauded the Yagbonwura for the gesture, and also called for more collaborations and dialogue to resolve their differences. “The dispute in Lukula is a very disturbing and sensitive issue; we must use dialogue to resolve it amicably in the interest of our people,” he said.
The Nayiri said the two kingdoms must be proud that their sons were vying for the presidency in this year’s December general election. “We must be proud of ourselves that in this year’s election, two of our illustrious sons of Yagbon and Mamprugu are the main contenders of the presidency.
“This is such a huge responsibility on us, and I implore all citizens to be of good behaviour and conduct,” he added. The Nayiri, therefore, implored the people to be decorous, tolerant and desist from acts that would create sharp divisions between them.
Writer’s email:mohammed.fugu@graphic.com.gh