His Royal Majesty (HRM) Tidugma Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, has criticised the Asantehene’s mediation to resolve the Bawku chieftaincy conflict, describing the process as flawed and ineffective.

Speaking during a press conference on the Bawku crisis on May 20, 2026, the Overlord of the Mamprugu alleged abuse of state power in the conflict that dates back decades.

The Nayiri expressed dissatisfaction with the mediation process led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, arguing that the initiative has failed to deliver lasting peace in the troubled area.

According to the Nayiri, the mediation report has instead deepened mistrust among the parties involved, while insecurity in Bawku continues unabated.

“The mediation report is flawed,” the Nayiri stated.

He explained that claims suggesting peace had returned to the area do not reflect the reality on the ground.

He contended that killings, arson attacks, abductions, and gun violence continue to plague the area despite ongoing peace efforts.

The Nayiri also used the occasion to highlight the historical importance of the Mamprugu Kingdom.

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He described Mamprugu as one of the oldest traditional states in Ghana, with a longstanding record of governance and contributions to national stability.

He said the Nayiri Skin represents legitimacy, justice, and responsible traditional leadership.

Beyond criticism of the mediation process, the Mamprugu overlord also accused state institutions and sections of the security agencies of suppressing dissenting voices from Mamprugu.

According to him, some media organisations have allegedly been prevented from airing alternative perspectives on the Bawku conflict.

The Nayiri also levelled serious allegations against sections of the security services, accusing them of arbitrary arrests, unlawful detentions, torture, and alleged extrajudicial killings involving Mamprusi individuals.

During the press conference, reference was made to the deaths of Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu, Seidu Safianu, and Shamsudeen Mohammed.

The Nayiri questioned official police accounts surrounding the deaths and called for independent investigations into the incidents.

Read full statement below

Key Points from Press Conference by HRM Tidugma Nayiri On the Bawku Chieftaincy Crisis, Security Concerns, and Alleged Abuse of State Power

Historical Importance of Mamprugu

• The Nayiri emphasized that Mamprugu is one of the oldest traditional kingdoms in Ghana, with a long-standing history of governance, justice, and contribution to national stability.

• He described the Nayiri Skin as a symbol of legitimacy, justice, and responsible leadership. Concerns Over Bawku Mediation Process

• The statement criticized the mediation process led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, describing the mediation report as “flawed.”

• According to the Nayiri, the report has failed to restore peace in Bawku and has instead deepened mistrust and insecurity.

• He argued that killings, arson, abductions, and gun violence continue despite claims that peace has returned. Allegations of Suppression and Media Restrictions

• The Nayiri alleged that state institutions and security agencies have attempted to suppress dissenting voices from Mamprugu.

• He claimed some media houses have allegedly been prevented from airing alternative perspectives on the conflict.

• He accused authorities of promoting a narrative that the crisis is under control while insecurity persists on the ground. Allegations Against Security Agencies

• Serious allegations were made against sections of the security services, including arbitrary arrests, unlawful detentions, torture, and alleged extrajudicial killings of Mamprusi individuals.

• The statement referenced the deaths of Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu, Seidu Safianu, and Shamsudeen Mohammed.

• The Nayiri questioned official police explanations surrounding these deaths and called for independent investigations. Claims of Selective Justice and Bias

• The statement alleged that more than 40 Mamprusi individuals have been arrested and transferred to Accra since December 16.

• It also claimed some detainees remain unaccounted for.

• The Nayiri accused the state of unequal treatment in providing security protection to travelers in the conflict zone.

• He further alleged that armed Kusasi groups continue to operate openly despite the heavy security presence.

Demand for Return of Bawku Naa Sheriga

• The Nayiri called for the immediate return of Alhaji Seidu Abagre II to Bawku.

• He described the continued detention and displacement of the chief as unconstitutional and unjustified. Concerns Over Constitutional Violations

• The statement argued that the Ghanaian Constitution prohibits state interference in chieftaincy matters.

• According to the Nayiri, the state has unlawfully taken sides in challenging the legitimacy of a chief installed through traditional authority.

Warning Over Rising Tensions

• The Nayiri warned that the current handling of the crisis could worsen ethnic tensions, radicalization, and instability in northern Ghana.

• He stressed that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through coercion, intimidation, or selective justice.

Calls to Government and International Community

• The Nayiri called on the Government of Ghana, civil society organizations, religious and traditional leaders, human rights institutions, and the international community to ensure justice and fairness in handling the conflict.

• He also called for independent investigations into alleged killings, disappearances, torture, and abuse of power.

• He urged stakeholders to promote constitutionalism, dialogue, and genuine peacebuilding efforts.

Final Message

• The statement concluded with a call for wisdom, justice, fairness, and lasting peace in Bawku and Ghana as a whole.

VPO/SEA