Exclusive: Otumfuo’s Last Words on Bawku Before Overseas Journey
Before traveling abroad for a short break, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II received Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu at Manhyia Palace on March 14, 2025. The King discussed his Bawku conflict mediation efforts.
The Thunder provides exclusive details of his statements.
What Otumfuo said
I have held discussions with the Nayiri, the Bawku Naba, and representatives of all key ethnic groups in the conflict zone—including the Mossi, Hausa, and Busanga communities. The Nayiri will be sending a delegation to meet with me on Tuesday as we continue to make steady progress toward resolution.
My message to all parties is clear: lay down your weapons. The stakeholders I have engaged have also been urged to persuade their communities to do the same. Violence is not the answer. Our focus must be on resolving the rightful ownership of Bawku through dialogue, not force.
I am aware that the Nayiri recently enskinned a chief in Bawku, but I do not believe this is the right approach. I intend to address this matter directly with him in our upcoming meeting, as such actions risk further escalation. For now, the Bawku Naba remains the officially recognized leader of the area, and this status will hold until a fair and lasting resolution is reached on whether Bawku rightfully belongs to the Kusasi or the Mamprusi.
Additionally, we will engage with individuals and groups outside the conflict zone who are fueling tensions through financial or political support, calling on them to cease such activities. Peace is a collective responsibility, and through sustained dialogue, we will gradually restore lasting calm to Bawku.
This process will take time, but with patience and cooperation, we can achieve a resolution that ensures peace and stability for all.
