The Nayiri and Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, has made an urgent appeal to the government to establish a permanent military base in Bawku as a bold solution to the region’s long-standing chieftaincy conflict.
The traditional leader emphasized that a sustained and well-equipped military presence is necessary to restore law and order in Bawku and surrounding areas, which continue to be affected by violent clashes rooted in deep-seated historical disputes.
Addressing a press conference at the Nayiri Palace in Nalerigu on Thursday, April 17, 2025, the Nayiri—who also serves as President of the North East Regional House of Chiefs—issued a strongly worded statement through his spokesperson, Mba Kpatiraana.
The press event was attended by paramount chiefs, subchiefs, warriors, youth leaders, and other elders of the Mamprugu Traditional Council.
“The government must urgently establish a permanent military base in Bawku to stabilize the situation and restore peace,” the Nayiri stated.
“This is no longer a matter that temporary security deployments can solve. We need permanent boots on the ground.”
Historical Context
The Bawku chieftaincy conflict has spanned several decades, mainly between the Mamprusi and Kusasi ethnic groups.
Despite multiple attempts at resolution, including mediation by traditional authorities and state actors, the dispute has persisted and worsened in recent months.
The situation has led to deaths, displacement, disruption of essential services, and economic instability in both the Upper East and North East Regions.
The Nayiri warned that unless government acts decisively, the Mamprugu Kingdom will be forced to take its own measures to protect its people.
“The state must not falter in its sovereign duty to maintain law and order, or else Mamprugu shall have no option but to take necessary measures to safeguard its people should provocations and injustices persist unchecked,” the statement warned.
The Nayiri’s Seven-Point Security and Peace Plan
In his address, the Nayiri made seven concrete recommendations to the government:
1. Permanent Security Deployment: “Respond to the needs of the police and military in Bawku by sending more personnel and resources. It is expensive, yes, but the price of violence is much higher.”
2. Political Non-Interference: “Security forces must be empowered to act independently, without political strings. Let them arrest and prosecute known criminals, no matter their affiliations.”
3. Freedom to Trade: “Women and children, even from Burkina Faso and Togo, should be able to trade in peace. The markets must be safe for all.”
4. Protection of Key Services: “Secure hospitals, banks, water systems, and electricity providers. When these are attacked, the whole society suffers.”
5. Unified Lorry Station: “Enforce the use of a central transport terminal to reduce risks. When people scatter across multiple terminals, they become easier targets.”
6. Strategic Checkpoints: “Place military-police checkpoints every five miles along the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom highway. This will reduce ambushes and ensure safe passage.”
7. Community Police Posts: “Establish police stations in hotspots like Binduri. Innocent people are being profiled and attacked. Law enforcement must be present where they’re needed most.”
Upholding Justice and Traditional Authority
The Nayiri also emphasized the need for justice and impartiality in state interventions, particularly as the Asantehene prepares to resume his role in mediating the conflict.
“His Royal Majesty earnestly implores the President to ensure that all state actors and institutions under his command reflect his own exemplary leadership—firm, impartial, and steadfast in upholding justice.”
“We must not allow political interference to derail peace efforts. The mediation by the Asantehene must be respected, and the process must remain neutral,” he added.
Calm Urged Among Mamprugu Youth
Calling for peace and restraint, the Nayiri appealed directly to the youth of Mamprugu, urging them to remain calm as the leadership continues to seek a resolution.
“In this difficult moment, His Royal Majesty calls upon the noble youth of Mamprugu to exercise restraint, uphold the values of peace, and remain law-abiding, as efforts to secure lasting resolution and relief are actively underway.
“The Nayiri has done all within his power to calm the youth. It is now up to government to act decisively and justly,” the statement concluded.
Inusah Fuseini Issues Public Apology
Meanwhile, former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Inusah Fuseini, has issued an unqualified public apology to the Nayiri, the Mamprugu youth, and the Traditional Council over comments he made regarding the Bawku conflict.
Inusah Fuseini’s remarks, made during a panel discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile, were widely interpreted as siding with the Kusasi faction.
“It was unfortunate that my views, though honestly expressed, appeared to align with the Kusasi position. That was never my aim,” Fuseini clarified.
“I am Dagomba, but suddenly I was being labelled as Kusasi simply for suggesting a possible approach to peace.”
Acknowledging the backlash, he added:“Upon deep reflection, I realised my comments did not sit well with the Mamprusi people. They were not meant to destabilise the status quo, nor were they meant to undermine any traditional authority.”
“With the greatest respect, I render an unqualified apology to the youth of Mamprugu, the Nayiri, and his Council of Chiefs. It was never my intention to hurt anyone.”
The former MP expressed hope that his apology, offered on Holy Saturday, would be accepted by all.
“On this Holy Saturday, I pray that my apology will be accepted by all those I have offended—my brothers in Mamprugu, the youth, and the traditional authorities.”
–BY Daniel Bampoe
