Chiefs Urged To Encourage Dialogue

Yendi (N/R) Mr Gilbert Seidu Iddi, Northern Regional Minister, has appealed to chiefs to encourage dialogue and consultation with the relevant agencies on all matters concerning security to enhance peace in the region. Mr Iddi, who was speaking during courtesy calls on the Ya-Na Yakubu Andani the second, Bimbilla Na, Abarika Atta and the paramount chief of Saboba, Uchabor Bor Bowan Kwadin, said the Regional Co- ordinating Council is operating an open-door policy and urged them not to hesitate to make their views known on all matters. He said the region is beset with a number of security problems which must be solved to pave the way for development, adding that the chiefs, the youth and all other community opinion leaders, have a role to play in promoting peace and integration. Ya-Na Andani said as chiefs they can only promote the welfare of the people in an atmosphere of peace and stability. "The 1994 ethnic conflict has dragged us back and we must put the past behind us and forge ahead'', he added.