The ongoing conflict in Bawku has escalated, with the death toll rising to 21 following the recent killing of a commercial driver known as Maadi. On November 2, Maadi was ambushed while traveling from Bolgatanga to Bawku, and his vehicle was set ablaze during the attack. This incident has heightened tensions in an area already fraught with violence.
The surge in hostilities is linked to the return of Alhaji Seidu Abagre, a rival chief who had been in exile since February 2023. His exile followed an arrest warrant that was issued due to the controversial circumstances surrounding his installation as chief in Nalerigu. The High Court in Kumasi annulled this warrant on October 17, paving the way for his return to the region. Abagre’s arrival in Bawku on October 26 has reignited long-standing disputes over chieftaincy, which have historically contributed to conflict in the area.
Since his return, Bawku has witnessed a wave of violence, including exchanges of gunfire that resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals and left several others injured. The deteriorating situation has alarmed local authorities, prompting the imposition of a curfew from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm in an effort to restore order and prevent further clashes. Security forces have been deployed to monitor the situation and address the unrest, but the volatile environment poses significant challenges.
The Bawku conflict has deep roots, driven by ethnic rivalries and disputes over leadership. The return of Abagre, seen by some as a threat to the established order, has exacerbated these tensions. As violence continues to unfold, the community remains on edge, with many residents fearing for their safety amid the ongoing unrest.
Efforts to mediate the conflict have proven difficult, as historical grievances and mistrust persist among different factions in the region. The government’s response, which includes curfews and increased security presence, reflects the urgent need to stabilize the situation. However, as the death toll rises and violence flares, the path to peace remains uncertain, with the lives of many at risk in this deeply divided community.
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