The flood of Sophisticated Arms in Bawku Sparks National Alarm
A wave of concern has hit Ghana as the Bawku conflict escalates with a disturbing increase in the use of sophisticated weaponry. The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has sounded a sharp alarm over the crisis, describing it as both a humanitarian disaster and a national security emergency. Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he expressed deep worry over the growing number of casualties and the worsening impact on civilian life.
According to Rev. Fordjour, the violence has paralyzed essential services in Bawku. Schools are shutting down, health workers are reluctant to accept postings, and fear has taken over everyday life. He extended condolences to bereaved families and urged all parties involved to exercise restraint for the sake of peace.
The conflict, traditionally rooted in ethnic tensions, appears to be evolving into a far more dangerous scenario. Reports of direct confrontations between civilians and security forces are emerging, raising fears of a broader collapse of law and order in the region. Rev. Fordjour described the trend as a “dangerous new dimension” that threatens to destabilize not only Bawku but other parts of the country if not swiftly contained.
Most alarming, however, is the influx of high-grade, military-style weapons now circulating among civilians in the conflict zone. The Ranking Member questioned how such weapons are entering the region and urged government authorities to take immediate steps to trace and stop the supply. He warned that these arms are emboldening factions to confront police and military personnel, complicating peacekeeping efforts and undermining state authority.
Rev. Fordjour stressed the need for a depoliticized, unified national response. He called on all political leaders to refrain from using the conflict as a tool for political gain. He cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric and emphasized the importance of standing together as one people to resolve the crisis.
Backing the mediation efforts led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, he maintained that any peace initiative would fail unless the government took firm action to disarm the factions and block further arms from entering Bawku. He described the current situation as one of organized and deliberate escalation, not isolated criminal activity.
With tensions rising and violence escalating, the call for immediate action has never been louder. The situation in Bawku has reached a critical point, and swift, coordinated intervention is needed to prevent a further descent into chaos.
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