Nkwanta feuding factions pledge to cease efire

The chiefs and elders of Adele, Akyode, and Challa ethnic groups of Nkwanta in the Oti Region have committed to employing non-violent means to resolve all inter-communal disputes in the paramountcy.

They have also pledged to build a strong relationship among themselves, enhance trust and mutual respect, and work towards minimising distrust and promoting lasting peace.

They have, therefore, agreed to the immediate cessation of the illegal importation of firearms into the municipality and of all armed violence by the three main feuding parties - Adele, Akyode and Challa, including all allied groups.

They promised to resort to non-violent means of resolving the conflict.

This was contained in a statement released by the National Peace Council in Accra.

This was after a declaration and outcome document was signed by the chiefs of the three towns and the council.

Declaration

“Pending any court processes and conclusions, all parties should stay within their land boundaries in the Nkwanta Municipality and this should be respected by all parties,” the statement said.

It also asked all ethnic groups within the municipality to accord security agencies respect and also avoid interfering in the discharge of their lawful duties.

The security was equally admonished to conduct their duties professionally, without fear or favour.

“The security agencies must investigate and bring to a conclusion all reported cases of violence from all the parties, and any other residents within the municipality,” it added.

Rumour mongering

The statement further asked citizens of Nkwanta to cease the sharing of rumours and misinformation through social media and other means that were inimical to peace in the municipality.

The leadership of Adele, Akyode, Challa and any allied groups must immediately instruct their people, especially their youth groups, to cease any violent, armed attacks regardless of provocation; and to participate in the joint implementation and monitoring committee that will be established by the parties,” the statement said.

It also called on all parties to the dispute to show the utmost respect for one another's rights and dignity, while continuing to engage to resolve the matter.

The statement said the council was committed to establishing a joint implementation and monitoring committee to ensure the realisation of the commitments made.