Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the Bawku conflict resulted in the loss of 119 lives during the mediation period from 2024 to 2025. The mediation effort was led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene.
According to Ghana News Agency, Otumfuo Osei Tutu was appointed in 2024 by former President Akufo-Addo to mediate the longstanding conflict in Bawku. The Otumfuo presented his final report on the mediation to President Mahama in December 2025. The President shared this information during a meeting with a delegation from the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs at the Presidency in Accra.
The delegation, led by Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III, Paramount Chief of the Chiana Traditional Area and President of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, was informed by President Mahama that relative peace was returning to Bawku, though challenges remained. The President acknowledged that his predecessor had established the Otumfuo Mediation Committee and emphasized the importance of continuing the mediation process.
President Mahama highlighted that despite ongoing mediation efforts, violence persisted in Bawku, leading to 119 fatalities. He expressed gratitude to Otumfuo for his role in the mediation, noting that the process aimed to find a traditional resolution to the conflict, which ultimately reverted to legal measures as traditional methods were unsuccessful.
The President underscored his obligation to uphold Ghana's constitution and laws, affirming that Naba Abugrago Azoka is the legally recognized Chief of Bawku. He stressed the importance of abiding by the law to maintain peace in the area.
President Mahama also addressed other regional conflicts, including the Bolgatanga Chieftaincy dispute, and expressed optimism that decisions by the Judicial Committee of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs would be respected. He warned against the imposition of rival chiefs, which could lead to widespread chaos.
The President discussed chieftaincy conflicts beyond the Upper East Region, citing issues in Sampa and Sunyani, and emphasized that violence is not a solution. He highlighted the role of chiefs in governance and conflict resolution and called for non-violent approaches.
Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III congratulated President Mahama on his electoral victory and praised the government's economic achievements. He urged the President to focus on infrastructure projects, including road construction and the Pawlugu Multi-purpose Dam Project, to enhance regional development.