BAWKU: Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the overlord of the Kusaug Traditional area in the Upper East Region, has urged the government to implement decisive measures to restore lasting peace in Bawku. He emphasized the necessity for legal actions against those responsible for the ongoing violence to prevent further casualties and property destruction, thereby fostering socioeconomic development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Naba Azoka II made these remarks during the Samanpiid festival in Bawku, which also marked the 40th anniversary of his leadership as the Overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area. This year's festival, celebrated under the theme "40 years of selfless leadership, consolidating the peace, unity, and development of Kusaug," highlighted the need for unity and development. The Samanpiid festival, now in its 37th year, serves as a time for the Kusasis people to express gratitude for a successful farming season.
Naba Azoka II lamented the decline of Bawku, once a thriving economic hub in the north, attributing its deterioration to unnecessary conflict that has resulted in significant loss of life and property. Despite the ongoing challenges, he stressed the importance of coming together to celebrate with traditional dance, music, and socialization. He also encouraged the Kusaug diaspora to invest in their homeland to create jobs and deter youth migration.
In a speech delivered on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, it was noted that achieving peace in Bawku is a collective responsibility. The President underscored the critical role of traditional leaders and mediators in fostering inclusive societies where people of all backgrounds can coexist. He urged young people to channel their energies into constructive activities and warned against allowing criminal elements and conflict profiteers to destabilize the region.
The festival attracted participants from various regions and brought together chiefs from across the country to celebrate and give thanks for a prosperous farming year.
