Dagbon Crisis Shook Me To the Core Until Asantehene Stepped In – Former Prez Kufuor
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has revealed the profound impact the Dagbon conflict had on him during his time in office in an interview with Opemsuo Radio’s Kofi Boakye.
Recalling the challenges faced in resolving the longstanding issue, the former president acknowledged the limitations of the initial approach, which involved setting up a Commission of Inquiry comprising judges.
“The Dagbon issue truly shook me. Despite establishing a Commission of Inquiry with judges to address it, the situation remained unresolved. I realized the deep historical connections between the Dagbon and Asante kingdoms, as well as the intertwined relations with the Mamprusi and Gonja people,” Kufuor explained.
Recognizing the advanced age of the Mamprusi and Gonja chiefs, Kufuor sought an alternative solution.
He turned to Kumasi, seeking assistance from Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the King of the Asante Kingdom.
“Upon meeting Otumfuo, I explained the situation and appealed for his intervention. Recognizing the historical ties between the Asante kingdom and other affected parties, Otumfuo agreed to take on a leadership role in facilitating dialogue.”
Under Otumfuo’s guidance, significant progress was made. Within a year, a roadmap for resolution was developed. However, the journey towards peace was not without challenges.
“Despite our efforts, setbacks occurred, including the unfortunate passing of two chiefs involved in the process. Eventually, it became evident that only Otumfuo had the authority and influence to bring about a lasting solution.”
Reflecting on the prolonged nature of the conflict, Kufuor expressed a sense of relief upon its eventual resolution. “Even after leaving office, I witnessed the Dagbon issue persist for over 17 years. It was a profound relief when Otumfuo’s intervention finally brought about reconciliation and peace to the region.”
The crisis stems from the rivalry between two royal lineages – the Abudu and Andani families. This longstanding conflict has entangled descendants of the same royal bloodline in an internal feud for years.
A pivotal event in this feud occurred on March 27, 2002, with the assassination of Ya Na Yakubu Adani II, the paramount chief of Ghana’s Dagbon Kingdom (Dagomba), along with over 40 other prominent figures who were part of the royal court.
Story by Adwoa S. Danso
