The Ghana Police Service has assured the public of its commitment to restoring peace and security in Bawku and its surrounding communities. This pledge comes on the heels of violent confrontations between local youth and law enforcement officers, which erupted on Thursday, April 10, 2025, leaving fatalities, injuries, and significant property damage, including the vandalization of the private residence of the Member of Parliament for Bawku, Mahama Ayariga.
In a statement, the Police disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, accompanied by members of the Police Management Board and experts from the National Police Headquarters, will visit Bawku. The delegation plans to pay a courtesy call on Zugraan Bawku Naaba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the esteemed overlord of Bawku, to discuss collaborative strategies for resolving the ongoing tensions.
The IGP and his team aim to consult with the traditional authority and other stakeholders, seeking their counsel and support to address misunderstandings that fueled the recent clashes. The Police emphasized their dedication to working closely with the community to rebuild trust and ensure lasting peace.
Government Interventions: Revised Curfew and Weapon Ban
In response to the escalating unrest, the Minister for the Interior has revised the curfew hours in Bawku Municipality and its environs, effective Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The new curfew hours, spanning 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., are part of measures advised by the Upper East Regional Security Council to maintain public order.
Additionally, a total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, and offensive weapons has been enforced in the affected areas. The Minister warned that individuals found in violation of this directive would face immediate arrest and prosecution, underscoring the government’s zero-tolerance approach to further violence.
Mahama Ayariga Condemns Violence and Appeals for Restraint
The Member of Parliament for Bawku, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed profound concern over the violent confrontations. Currently on assignment abroad, Mr. Ayariga issued a statement condemning the loss of lives and the attempted arson of his residence. He attributed the unrest to mounting frustrations among the youth over delays in resolving longstanding chieftaincy disputes and alleged misconduct by some law enforcement officers.
“I understand the anger and frustration of the youth about the slow resolution of the Bawku and Kusaaug situation, as well as the actions of certain misguided law enforcement officers,” Mr. Ayariga said.
The MP reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution through legal and constitutional means, urging residents to exercise restraint and maintain constructive relations with security personnel. He expressed faith in the ongoing mediation efforts led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, with support from traditional leaders across Kusaaug, Mamprugu, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government. Mr. Ayariga emphasized the need for adherence to judicial decisions and traditional norms to resolve the crisis.
Addressing allegations levelled against him by political opponents, Mr. Ayariga dismissed what he described as a coordinated smear campaign on social media. “These lies and attempts to exploit the current unrest for political gain will not deter me. In the end, the truth will prevail, and we will be vindicated,” he declared.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
As tensions simmer, the Police, government, and traditional authorities are united in their call for dialogue, restraint, and collective action to restore peace in Bawku. The coming days will test the resolve of all stakeholders to chart a peaceful course for the troubled region.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
