Increasing false prophesies by religious leaders in the Yunyoo-Nasuan District of the Northeast Region are posing a significant threat to peace and security, according to stakeholders. These prophesies, linking community problems to purported gatherings of witches on economic trees, have led to the indiscriminate felling of such trees, causing tension and risking conflict escalation.
The revelation came during an engagement on conflict early warning signs organized by the Good Governance, Justice, and Peace Directorate of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocesan Development Organisation (NABOCADO). The project, funded by MISEREOR, aims to bolster peace structures within the Diocese.
Dr. Joseph Bangu, Director of NABOCADO, highlighted the negative consequences of false prophecies, including increased witchcraft accusations and discrimination against vulnerable individuals. He emphasized the need to address these issues promptly to prevent further escalation and conflict.
Mr. Konlan Bitian, the District Chief Executive for Yunyoo-Nasuan, acknowledged the efforts of the District Security Council in addressing prophecy-related issues and called for support from stakeholders. He also identified chieftaincy disputes as another significant factor threatening peace and stability, stressing the importance of education to promote peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Ms. Cynthia Lamisi Ali, an Assembly member, commended NABOCADO and its partners for their peace-building intervention, emphasizing its role in conflict prevention.
Reverend Father Yosef Giday, Catholic Parish Priest for St. Simon Peter Parish, Nakpanduri, reiterated the importance of peace for development and advocated for more engagements to sensitize community members, especially chiefs and youth, on peaceful conflict resolution approaches.