ACCRA,Ghana,July 10,2023-The Konkomba Youth Association (KOYA) and Dagbon Forum have come together to address
the recent surge in social media hate speeches targeting the Konkomba and Dagomba
communities. We stand united in our commitment to promoting peace, harmony, and
understanding among all residents of Northern Ghana
We want to emphasize that the leadership of KOYA and the entire Nkpakpaando is in close
contact with the leadership of Dagbon Forum and the entire Dagbon. Together, we are actively
working towards maintaining peace and security for all communities.
We recognize the concerns and anxieties that may arise in such situations, but we want to assure
all Konkombas and Dagombas that there is no need for panic or fear. The leadership of both
KOYA and DF, are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Konkombas and
Dagombas and fostering a peaceful coexistence between our communities.
We have engaged in ongoing dialogue and communication as leaders to address the tensions
and mitigate any potential conflicts. Through open lines of communication, we are actively
addressing the issues at hand, seeking resolutions, and promoting understanding amongst all
parties involved.
Both KOYA and Dagbon Forum strongly condemn the dissemination of hateful and divisive
rhetorics on social media platforms. Such inflammatory content stokes tension, threatens social
cohesion, and has the potential to incite violence. We firmly believe that respect, dialogue, and
unity are the foundations for building a peaceful society.
In light of the recent events, we urgently appeal to all members of the Konkomba and Dagomba
communities to remain calm, exercise restraint, and reject the influence of those spreading hate
speeches. It is crucial that we recognize the destructive intent behind these incitements and
adopt a collective response based on reason and empathy.
We call upon responsible social media users to report any hate-filled content encountered
online to the appropriate platforms. By working together, we can help prevent the proliferation
of harmful speech and contribute to the creation of a safer and more inclusive digital
environment.
Therefore, we urge all Konkomba and Dagomba students and workers in both Konkomba and
Dagomba areas to remain calm and continue with their daily routines without fear. We
understand the importance of education and livelihoods, and we want to assure you that
concerted efforts are being made to safeguard your well-being.
We encourage all residents of the Northern Region to be cautious of rumours and
misinformation that may circulate during these challenging times. Verify information through
reputable sources and refrain from engaging in activities that may escalate tensions or
contribute to misunderstandings.
Furthermore, we implore the government, community leaders, religious groups, and civil
society organizations to actively engage in promoting peacebuilding initiatives and fostering
understanding between the Konkomba and Dagomba communities. It is incumbent upon us to
reject hate and actively seek paths toward sustainable peace and harmony.
We also urge law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to investigate and take
appropriate action against individuals found to be engaging in hate speech, in accordance with
the laws governing our society. Safeguarding peace and ensuring the safety of all citizens is a
shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all stakeholders.
The leadership and elders from our communities will continue to engage in areas of mutual
interest including addressing high rates of food and nutrition insecurity, illiteracy, infant
mortality, and general levels of underdevelopment and poverty.
We urge all Konkombas and Dagbambas to go about their usual businesses and report anything
suspicious to the security agencies.
In closing, KOYA and Dagbon Forum reiterate our unwavering commitment to fostering
peaceful coexistence between the Konkomba and Dagomba communities. Together, we can
overcome the misguided actions of a few and build a society that values unity, tolerance, and
respect for all.
Thank you
Signatories;
JAWOL BISUNNA TITUS
KOYA President
0245731023
CHIEF SAKOYANAA MAHAMA
IDDRISU SINTARO
Dagbon Forum President
0548780962
ELVIS POLIYEH NAGBIJA
KOYA General Secretary
0245036606
AHMED ABDUL-RAZAK DE-GANGSO
Dagbon Forum General Secretary
0202984