Bawku has witnessed another wave of violence, with three individuals, including a schoolgirl, losing their lives in a deadly gunfight on Friday, November 29, 2024. This latest clash brings the death toll in the ongoing conflict to 32.
The violence, which erupted in the early hours of Friday, was centered around the Gingande-Zongo area. It continued unabated until the afternoon, with gunfire persisting until approximately 1 PM. In addition to the fatalities, many residents sustained gunshot wounds, with some reported to be in critical condition.
The conflict has also caused widespread destruction, with several homes set ablaze in the affected areas. These tragic events come just two days after another individual was killed, further intensifying fears among residents and exacerbating the already volatile situation.
Since late October 2024, Bawku has been gripped by escalating violence linked to longstanding ethnic and chieftaincy disputes. The situation has worsened in recent weeks, with curfew hours failing to deter clashes between rival factions. Ambushes targeting travellers and sporadic attacks have made the area increasingly unsafe, leaving both residents and security forces struggling to restore peace.
The resurgence of the conflict has been partly attributed to the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile. Some sources allege that his reappearance has reignited tensions, leading to renewed hostilities in the region.
Bawku’s history of ethnic disputes and leadership conflicts has long made it a hotspot for violence, but the current wave of unrest has reached alarming levels. Despite efforts by local authorities to mediate and maintain order, the situation remains highly unpredictable and fraught with tension.
Residents have expressed growing concerns over their safety, with many calling on the government and security agencies to take decisive action to prevent further loss of life and property. Efforts to contain the violence have so far proven inadequate, leaving the community on edge and struggling to cope with the daily threats posed by the conflict.
The government and peacebuilding organizations are under increasing pressure to intervene meaningfully and provide lasting solutions to the underlying issues fueling the conflict. As the nation approaches the December 7 elections, ensuring peace in Bawku has become an urgent priority for maintaining stability in the region.
This article is based on a report by Citi Newsroom
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