The town of Bawku in the Upper East Region of Ghana continues to be a hotspot of violence, with the death toll from the renewed conflict rising to 26. Despite the imposition of a curfew by the government, the clashes have persisted, leading to more casualties and destruction of property.
The curfew, which was announced by the Ministry of the Interior, was intended to curb the unrest following the controversial enskinment of Seidu Abagre as Bawku Naba in February 2023. “Based on assessments by national security agencies, the continued presence of Mr. Seidu Abagre in Bawku poses a substantial threat to public safety and security,” the Ministry stated.
However, the 12-hour curfew has not been sufficient to prevent further violence. JoyNews correspondent, Albert Sore, reported that heavily armed groups have been engaging in a series of attacks, resulting in multiple houses being burnt down. “What I’m learning is that the incident happened about two days ago but I’m gathering more information as to how it all happened,” Sore noted.
The situation in Bawku has led to the closure of most schools and businesses, as residents fear for their safety. “For Bawku, ever since the resurgence happened, a lot of the schools and other businesses don’t open. People naturally don’t leave their homes because of the shootings and all that. So it’s kind of normal in Bawku for schools to shut,” Sore added.
The Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, has attributed the ongoing conflict to the presence of the rival chief, Seidu Abagre. “The gentleman, Abagre Seidu, must understand that his very presence is the reason behind all this unrest. If I were in his position, I would advise myself,” he remarked.
Despite the Minister’s call for Seidu Abagre to voluntarily leave the area, the Municipal Chief Executive for West Mamprusi Municipality, Issahaku Anineyaw Somo Lucky, expressed doubts that this alone would resolve the situation. “The situation would require more consultation with stakeholders to determine the best way forward,” he said.
As the violence continues, the people of Bawku are left to grapple with the uncertainty and fear that has become a part of their daily lives. The government’s efforts to restore peace and order have so far been unsuccessful, and the town remains on edge.
More on the Bawku conflict in the Upper East Region of Ghana
On Oct 28, President Akufo-Addo’s gov’t told Ghanaians that security agencies have advised that the presence of one man in Bawku posed a threat to peace. Since then more people have been killed. But the person remains in Bawku. Lives don’t Matter? https://t.co/BFSTQj9Y5G
— Sulemana Braimah (@sulemana) November 15, 2024
SOURCE: Myjoyonline.com
