Mamprugu Traditional Council is demanding an unconditional apology from the government over the military’s attempt to arrest the overlord and the purportedly installed Bawku Naba.

They made it known at a press conference attended by over 20 members of the council, youth and sympathizers in the area on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.

According to the Paramount Chief of Gbankoni, Naba Lare Haruna Nasinmo II, the Mamprugu Overlord ‘Nayiri’ is the only legitimate enskinning authority of the Bawku Chieftaincy skin.

“We call for an unconditional apology and a public withdrawal of the statement issued by the Minister for Information. Government is to give recognition to whoever it pleases. What matters to us is who our enskinned authorities recognise,” he added.

Armed soldiers deployed to Nalerigu clashed with the town’s youth on the night of February 19.

The attempt by the soldiers followed a warrant issued by a High Court in Bolgatanga for the arrest of the two traditional leaders for their involvement in the enskinment of the chief.

In a press release issued by the Information Ministry on February 15, the government said the act is a national security violation.

According to JoyNews correspondent, Eliasu Tanko, the military forces upon their arrival on Sunday night, however, could not carry out the arrest as they were met by the angry youth of the town.

At Tuesday’s press conference, the traditional council condemned the act.

“I want this to be the last time that the government event disrespects our kingdom in this manner,” the spokesperson added.

Ranking member of Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, James Agalga says government could rely on eminent chiefs to lead media talks.