Salifu Saeed
The Northern Regional Minister, Salifu Saeed, who doubles as the Chairman of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), has taken a number of measures and actions to ensure the smooth implementation of the roadmap on the Dagbon Chieftaincy Affairs by the Otumfuo-led Committee of Eminent Chiefs.
REGSEC had a very fruitful engagement with Ulemas, leaders of faith- based organizations in the region, on their role in preaching and fostering peace before, during and after the events.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and two eminent chiefs have finally resolved the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, which has seen the two feuding royal gates – Abudu and Andani – travelling to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for more than a decade for mediation and settlement.
The funeral rites, which are expected to last for two weeks, will commence on December 14 and end on December 28, 2018, after which the Abudus will leave the Gbewa Palace peacefully.
The Andanis will also take their turn at the Gbewa Palace to organize the funeral rites of the late Yaa-Naa Yakubu Andani from 4-18 January 2019.
REGSEC called on all parties involved in the roadmap (Andanis and Abudus), as well as the general public, to see the announcement of the dates for the performance of the funerals and the subsequent enskinment of a new Yaa Naa as a unique opportunity to restore lasting peace to Dagbon for it to resume its rightful place as the bastion of tradition and culture once again.
“We appeal for restraint, caution and circumspection in utterances and actions at this crucial time. All and sundry must act in a manner to ensure that we keep the existing peace and improve upon it for Dagbon to restore its pride. REGSEC calls on everyone to resolve to ensure that there is peace for these events to pass off smoothly”, the minister pointed out.
The regional minister has indicated that government is committed to finding lasting peace and stability in Dagbon to foster growth, development and investment since no meaningful development can take place without peace.
He indicated strongly that the security agencies are very much alert and prepared to deal decisively with any individual or group that will attempt to create confusion over the implementation of the roadmap, and that any such person or group will be brought to book if they engage in any act that will undermine the peace process.
Mr. Saeed said the Northern Region cherishes peace and that the people desire peace to pave the way for them to improve their general living conditions and development, adding that the region has suffered enough in terms of peace and security and its repercussions on development.
“There will be no way for any person or group to roll back the progress being made on the roadmap and therefore we must all cooperate for the successful march to peace,” he added.
The minister urged all and sundry to be alert during this period and to report any suspicious movement to the security agencies so that nobody gets the chance to disturb the peace.
FROM Eric Kombat, Tamale?