By Emelia B. Addae
Koforidua, April 25, GNA – The Bimoba-Gurma Council of Chiefs in the Eastern Region has made a strong appeal for peace following recent violent clashes that erupted in the Bunkpurugu District of the North-East Region.
The upheavals, linked to disputes over chieftaincy legitimacy, resulted in several loss of lives, destruction of settlements, and displacement of thousands – mostly women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.
The call was made in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency on Friday, Mr. Joshua Miarma Bonteri, Secretary to the Council of Chiefs, highlighted the severe impact of these conflicts.
“Several thousands of people, particularly the most vulnerable such as women, children, persons with disabilities, and the aged, have been displaced,” he noted.
The Council expressed particular concern about the destruction of Naniik, Ngaanma Gberuk, Nyapomon, and Dung Laar Gberuk settlements due to clashes linked to disputes over the legitimacy of chieftaincy titles.
“Such actions are retrogressive and utterly undermine residents’ efforts to overcome poverty and improve their living standards,” Mr. Bonteri added.
The Bimoba-Gurma Chiefs condemned any form of violence among clans, stating, “These violent actions are very inimical to the struggle and economic pursuits of people in Bimobaland.”
They emphasized that “peace means everything to society, and nothing can replace peace,” warning that violence only displaces people and diverts resources meant for community development.
The Council alerted that some short-sighted individuals are attempting to incite the Konkomba ethnic group amidst the fragile situation.
“This dangerous adventure can lead to inter-ethnic crisis with severe repercussions for all inhabitants in the north-eastern corridor,” the statement warned.
Considering this, the Council urged the Konkomba chief of Bimbagu South to refrain from participating in or supporting the unrest.
“Focus on maintaining peace to promote development in your own jurisdiction,” they advised.
The Council also entreated the Nayiri, the overlord of Mamprugu, and the Chief of Bendi to base their decisions on historical facts regarding chieftaincy issues, preventing further escalation of the crisis in Bimobaland.
They further called upon the Chief of Bunkpurugu to fully support the resolution of disputes in the area.
The Council also appealed to the District Security Council and the Regional Security Council to provide adequate security to facilitate the return of displaced people, allowing them to rebuild their homes.
They urged a thorough investigation into the origins of the conflicts to prevent future occurrences.
Further assistance was sought from relevant state agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the international community to support displaced communities with essentials such as food, clothing, and shelter to alleviate suffering and prevent potential outbreaks of diseases.
The Council appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to take a personal interest in investigating the circumstances surrounding the unrest in the Bimoba area, advocating a long-term resolution to the disputes.
The chiefs also requested the government prioritize the construction of the Nalerigu-Nakpanduri-Bimbagu-Bunkpurugu-Yemburi road to enhance transnational trade and boost economic activities in the region.
“The Council remains hopeful that the relevant authorities will give the situation urgent attention and take the right steps to restore peace, security, and stability in Bimobaland,” the statement said.
GNA
DL/CA