Accra:Bono East The Kyidom Hene of the Abease Traditional Area, Nana Kokwa Boffour II, has urged for immediate security intervention in Zabrama and nearby communities within the Pru West District. He warned that the Paramount Chief, Obrempong Kru Takyi II, should be held accountable if the ongoing tensions escalate into violence.
According to Ghana Web, Nana Kokwa Boffour II raised concerns about a land dispute related to a proposed 24-hour economy market site, alongside allegations of intimidation against residents of Abease, Zabrama, and Dama-Nkwanta. He called on regional and national security councils, as well as the Bono East Regional House of Chiefs, to intervene.
The dispute centers on land allocated for the proposed market, which the Zabrama divisional chief and the local Odikro had reportedly made available to the government. Nana Kokwa Boffour II accused Obrempong Kru Takyi II of interfering with the land and using vigilantes and alleged armed guards from Ivory Coast to intimidate residents. These claims have not been independently verified, and no response from the paramount chief was provided.
Nana Kokwa Boffour II emphasized that the community would not allow the land intended for the market project to be misappropriated. He also urged state officials to engage with the paramount chief to address the land dispute and other issues, including alleged indiscriminate land sales and conflicts involving Fulani herders.
Meanwhile, Kyereme Charles, leader of the youth groups in the affected areas, called on President John Dramani Mahama and security agencies to ensure the protection of residents. He expressed concerns about alleged police corruption and the presence of armed guards from Ivory Coast.
Mr. Charles appealed to security councils and the district assembly to safeguard residents of various communities, including Zabrama and Abease. He stressed the commitment of residents to protect public property and support community development projects, particularly the market.
The situation has led to calls for dialogue among traditional leaders, local government, and security agencies to resolve the dispute peacefully, protect public assets, and ensure community safety.