Veep calls on Dagombas to forge unity

Tamale, July 14, GNA- Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama at the weekend called on Dagombas to strive for unity and avoid acts that have polarized Dagbon and undermined peace and development. "Do not be at loggerheads with one another. Build peace, love and unity and stay in harmony," he said.

Vice President Mahama made the call in Tamale when he joined a large number of people to mourn the late Sagneri Naa (Chief of Sagnerigu) Dr. Andani Andan.

The 71-year-old chief who died last week was a former deputy commissioner of police and the first Medical Director at the Police Hospital in Accra.

Vice President Mahama described the late Dr Andan as a great lost to Dagbon Traditional Area and asked Dagombas to capitalize on his demise to end the protracted chieftaincy dispute that wrecked havoc in the area.

Alhaji Mustapha Ali Idris, Northern Regional Minister described Dr Andan as distinguished son of Dagbon who extended his medical services to everyone without discrimination.

Commissioner of Police Mr. Ephraim Okoe Brakatu, Northern Regional Police Commander, who paid tribute to the departed chief, said the Police Service would remember him for his sense of integrity, hard work, discipline, loyalty and dedication to duty.

"His leadership qualities were exemplary," he noted. Vice President Mahama later joined worshippers at the Tamale Central Mosque where he commended them for praying for the rains. He said famine was eminent in the region and it was very appropriate for Muslims to pray for rain to avert the situation. Vice President Mahama also interacted with Muslims at the Afa Ajara Mosque, where he congratulated Sheikh Abubakr Saeed for his new appointment as the Imam of the mosque. He asked him not to compromise the truth and rather aspire to preach the tenets of the Quran to promote peace and unity. Vice President Mahama concluded his visit by consoling the family of the late Dr Edward Baba Sampana, 67, a veterinary officer who died last Month.

He described Dr Sampana as a man who was dedicated to sports and the development of Dagbon. 14 July 07