By Dr Kofi Amponsah-Bediako
The richness of culture, when allowed to be portrayed in an atmosphere of peace, is glamorously unveiled to show that peace is a virtue that cannot be toyed with. This is because without it, nothing good or beautiful can be promoted in society.
What this implies is that for the smooth attainment of meaningful impact and progress, peace is a prerequisite that should not be compromised under any circumstance.
It is for this reason that the attainment and restoration of peace in Dagbon constitutes great hope for the country as far as its development agenda is concerned.
Visit
For the first time in the history of Ghana, the chiefs and people of Dagbon, led by their king, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, have visited President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at Jubilee House in Accra.
The visit became necessary following the restoration of peace after a two-decade chieftaincy dispute. Pomp was in full display when the king arrived at Jubilee House on horseback as the drummers and praise singers displayed their skills.
The accompanying entourage included some prominent chiefs from the area, signifying a beautiful way of telling the world that finally, peace had returned to Dagbon.
Also present were other great traditional leaders or their representatives.
The riding of horses amidst pomp and circumstance, together with the beautiful display of traditional relics and dance, revealed for the first time that the peace in Dagbon, coming under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, would go a long way to propel development for everyone since the growth of this country greatly depends on peace, unity and mutual respect for one another.
Doubting Thomases
Many were the doubting Thomases who felt that peace could never be restored in Dagbon, but today this has been possible because of the good heart of a president and government whose aim is to unite the whole country and bring peace and development to the doorstep of every person.
Various parts of the country need peace, so this is the time for all communities across the country to come to the realisation that needless disturbances cannot be entertained in this country.
All community leaders must learn from Yaa-Naa and his entourage and seek the promotion of peace for the general good, progress and development of the country.
Good work
Also, what cannot be swept under the carpet is the good work began by former President John Agyekum Kufuor, who worked hard with his government to ensure the setting up of the committee of eminent chiefs, under the chairmanship of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei-Tutu II, for the attainment of peace in the Dagbon Kingdom.
If there is peace in Dagbon today, it is the result of all these people who worked hard to ensure that peace is attained.
Having seen the value of peace, the people of Dagbon will not allow any group of people to come and deceive them in any way for any purpose, including exploitation of sentiments during elections.
This was confirmed by the presence of the king of Dagbon in the form of a visit to the President to assure him of the commitment of his kingdom to peace and development in their area.
Everyone has a responsibility to ensure that the peace in Dagbon is guarded and sustained.
The time for peace is now, so all Ghanaians must work hard to utilise our peaceful atmosphere for socio-economic development, as well as purposeful growth not only in Dagbon but the entire country.
