The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, yesterday presented the final report of his mediation efforts on the long-standing Bawku conflict, outlining key recommendations aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in the area.

The report acknowledges the deep-rooted and historical nature of the conflict, describing it as a complex chieftaincy and ethnic dispute that has endured for decades. Otumfuo’s mediation team reviewed customary laws, historical records and previous rulings to bring clarity to the chieftaincy succession issues at the heart of the unrest.

A major highlight of the report is a call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging all factions to lay down their arms and commit to peaceful coexistence. The report also stresses the need for voluntary disarmament and full cooperation with state security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property.

The Asantehene emphasized reconciliation and dialogue as critical to peace, calling on traditional leaders, youth groups and opinion leaders to embrace forgiveness and sustained engagement. The report further recommends strong government backing for the implementation of the proposals, while maintaining neutrality and strengthening security operations in the conflict-prone area.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted that the mediation process was non-political and purely national in character, undertaken in the interest of unity and peace. He appealed to all Ghanaians to support the recommendations, describing peace in Bawku as a matter of national concern.

According to the Asantehene’s mediation report on the Bawku chieftaincy dispute, the lawful overlord (chief) of Bawku is Zugran Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II. The Asantehene stated that existing Ghanaian law and judicial decisions — including Supreme Court judgments — clearly recognise Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II as the legitimate Bawku Naba and Paramount Chief of the Kusasi Traditional Area. He emphasised that this legal position must be upheld and enforced, and that no other person in Bawku can lawfully claim that status outside of the constitutional and judicial framework.

The government has received the report and is expected to study its recommendations toward bringing a permanent resolution to the conflict.