The Gonjaland Youth Association (GLYA) has raised concerns over rising insecurity, land disputes, and escalating inter-ethnic tensions in the Savannah Region, particularly in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District.
Addressing the press after a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Sawla, GLYA President Al-Hassan Baba Darison reaffirmed the association’s commitment to peace and unity but stressed that it will not compromise on the defence of Gonja lands or the protection of its people.
He condemned the recent violent clashes in Gbeniyiri, which involved sections of the Briffo community and led to loss of lives and destruction of property.
In response, the association announced the establishment of a Conflict Resolution Committee to mediate disputes and urged security agencies to act impartially in restoring calm.
Mr. Darison also cautioned against inflammatory campaigns, including the use of violence and provocative social media posts, declaring that “Gonjas are never frightened by a mere gun.
On land issues, the GLYA reiterated that the territories handed down by their forefathers, led by Ndewura Jakpa, “will not be lost to any group of people not even an inch.”
To safeguard these lands, the association said it will form a Technical Committee of chiefs, historians, and land experts to harmonize boundaries and guide land administration.
The group further demanded justice for victims of the Gbeniyiri clashes, describing the killings as a grave injustice that must not go unpunished.
It also proposed a moratorium on land sales until proper guidelines are developed and called for bylaws to guide settlers in respecting customs and traditional authority.
While stressing that Gonjas value peaceful coexistence, Mr. Darison warned that their generosity should not be abused. “Do not mistake our hospitality for weakness.
We will defend every inch of our land from Kandea to Kulaw,” he said.
The GLYA has urged government, traditional authorities, security agencies, and civil society organizations to act swiftly and fairly to safeguard peace and stability in the region.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
