Resolve conflicts in Northern Region now – Muslim Clerics

Muslim Clerics in the Northern Region have called on government to renew its commitment to permanently resolve chieftaincy conflicts spread in various parts of the region.

They argued that the Dagbon chieftaincy impasse, that of Bimbila and Bunkprugu are national security threats which require a lasting solution.

Addressing a joint news conference in Tamale by the Tijaniya and Ahlisuna Muslim communities, they served notice that the situation in Dagbon, Bimbila and Bunkprugu could escalate during this year’s electioneering campaign season, hence calls for government’s rapid response.

They further advocated the establishment of peace committees in Bimbila and Bunkprugu to assist other mediators trying to resolve these incessant conflicts.

They reiterated the need for the three eminent chiefs mediating the Dagbon chieftaincy stalemate at the Manhyia palace to impartially implement the road map to peace in Dagbon. Sheikh Imam Amin Bamba, Chief Imam and Spiritual leader of Masjidul Qudwa headquartered in Tamale addressed the media.

“We believe that as a way forward the committee of the three eminent chiefs should continue with the mediation process and show firmness and resoluteness in the decisions they take in order to avoid loss of confidence of the people in the mediation process.”

“We urge both parties to show magnanimity and respect the decisions agreed with the three eminent chiefs mediating the conflict.”

Sheikh Amin Bamba took a swipe at persons described as chieftaincy contractors who are thwarting the efforts of the mediators for their selfish gains.

“We are aware that as a result of the emotional attachment of the people of the traditional area to the conflict, the status quo that is the conflict is being exploited by individuals and groups to serve their parochial interest and impediments under the guise of serving the interest of particular sides Abudus or Andanis.”

“We therefore wish to call on the government to take steps to enforce or implement all relevant decisions that are arrived at during negotiations in line with Qu’ranic directives contained in Qu'ran chapter 49 verse 9.”