The Government of Ghana has formally endorsed the Bawku Conflict Mediation Report presented by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, describing it as a comprehensive roadmap for lasting peace, reconciliation and stability in the conflict-prone area.
In an official statement issued Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, the government said it had carefully reviewed and accepted all findings and recommendations contained in the report, which was submitted on Dec. 16. The government stressed that the mediation process was not intended to apportion blame or declare winners and losers, but to restore peace and national cohesion.
The statement reaffirmed the legal position consistently upheld by Ghana’s Supreme Court that Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II is the lawful Bawku Naba, emphasizing that no individual or group is permitted to challenge his authority. In line with the report’s recommendations, the government accepted that Alhaji Seidu Abagre, installed as a rival claimant, should be recalled to Nalerigu by the Nayiri to assume an alternative traditional role.
The government said it will immediately facilitate Alhaji Abagre’s safe movement to Nalerigu, where he will await further directives from the Overlord of Mamprugu. It also appealed to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to continue providing leadership and moral authority in ongoing reconciliation efforts between the Mamprusi and Kusasi communities.
Acknowledging the devastating social and economic toll of the protracted conflict, the government announced a major development intervention for the area. President John Dramani Mahama has directed the establishment of a one-billion-cedi Bawku Revitalisation Fund to be disbursed between 2026 and 2028.
The fund will support the reconstruction of critical infrastructure, including roads, schools, health facilities, irrigation systems, security installations and commercial facilities, aimed at restoring Bawku’s status as a key economic and trading hub in northern Ghana.
The revitalisation programme will be overseen by a high-level committee chaired by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, who also serves as acting defence minister. Other members include Upper East Regional Minister Donaltas Akamugri and Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, the Bawku Central lawmaker representing MPs from the area.
The government called on traditional authorities, political leaders, youth groups, civil society organisations, religious bodies and development partners to support the peace process in a spirit of unity and restraint. It echoed Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s message that there are no winners or losers and urged all parties to faithfully implement the mediation report in the national interest.
The statement expressed gratitude to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Nayiri, the Bawku Naba and all stakeholders whose cooperation contributed to what the government described as a historic mediation effort.
Statement below:
