The Chief of Anum-Asamankese Traditional Area in the Eastern Region, Barimah Essah Kwasi Mensah Bediako III, has urgently called upon President Nana Akufo-Addo, the Okyenhene, and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to address the escalating tension between Anum and Asamankese before it erupts into a full-blown ethnic war.
During the last Akwasidae durbar, Chief Bediako III expressed his concern over the persistent attacks and violence directed towards the people of Anum.
Despite the community’s patience and perseverance, he stressed that the situation cannot be allowed to persist unchecked.
Barimah Essah Bediako III lamented the perceived indifference of the Asamankese police to the dangerous developments, highlighting an incident where his palace was attacked, and some of his people were assaulted same time last year.
He decried the lack of police action during the assault on him, though he officially lodged a complaint and those involved pointed out, that not a single person have been dealt with by the police. Emphasizing that as a police officer, he respects the law and refrains from responding with violence.
The Chief recounted a disturbing incident where he was attacked again a week during the observation of Akwasidae where his drums were cut into pieces, with his royal stool destroyed in the presence of Asamankese police who allegedly failed to intervene.
Despite making a passionate appeal for help, Barimah Essah Bediako III claimed that the police took no action.
“I know the law and I also know the customs; that is why I always advise my people not to mind or respond to the provocations because when they do that, it distorts the truth.”
“But nobody is bigger than the law here in Ghana, and it will deal with those who offend it,” he warned.
Barimah Bediako III invoked historical context, emphasizing that the Anum people were the first settlers in the area Nyanoase in the 14 Century, predating the arrival of those in Asamankese. He called for a resolution based on law, customs, and historical understanding, asserting that Anum is not subservient and does not pay homage to Asamankese.
Expressing disappointment in the police’s alleged disregard for his safety, Barimah Essah Bediako III appealed to the authorities to take notice of the situation in Anum-Asamankese and Asamankese.
He warned, “Today I am the victim, but remember tomorrow it could be you. I am also a police officer, but I respect the law, so I won’t respond in kind. All those involved in this violence, I leave them in the hands of God and our ancestors, and afterward, I will report them to the authorities.”
He expressed concern about the potential escalation of ethnic conflicts and urged immediate intervention to maintain peace in Anum-Asamankese.
“I want peace. I am like Israel, and I am offering peace at Anum-Asamankese, so the authorities should ensure peace prevails here and stop the violence being meted out on us by the people of Asamankese,” Barimah Essah Bediako III appealed.