As we approach the December 7th polls, tensions are heightening among political parties, exacerbated by the longstanding ethnic and political conflicts in Bawku. There is an urgent need for the country’s security apparatus to adopt a more aggressive stance to manage the increasing incidents of gun violence linked to political rallies and ethnic strife.
Security Consultant and fraud expert Richard Kumadoe discussed these concerns on the Adekye Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He emphasized that as we enter the final stretch before the elections, political activities are likely to intensify, making it crucial for security and intelligence agencies to revisit major political hotspots with a more assertive law enforcement approach to prevent further ethnic and political clashes.
Kumadoe criticized political leaders for becoming entangled in traditional and ethnic issues, complicating efforts to resolve intra-factional conflicts across the country. He urged political parties to develop comprehensive security strategies tailored to their constituencies, focusing on protective measures, educating constituents about basic security techniques, managing traffic, and collaborating with the media.
In response to escalating violence in Bawku, the Ministry of the Interior has imposed a curfew from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, effective October 28, 2024. This decision came after an emergency meeting of the National Security Council, chaired by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in light of renewed clashes linked to a longstanding chieftaincy dispute.
Tensions have surged following the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile, which has reignited conflict in the region. Tragically, this unrest has led to the loss of at least eight lives and numerous injuries, including an ambush on travelers.
In a statement, the Ministry of the Interior cited Abagre’s presence as a significant threat to public safety and peace in Bawku, making the curfew necessary. The ministry urged residents to comply with the directive and cooperate with security forces working to restore order. Security officials have been mobilised to enforce the curfew strictly, with a warning that violators will face legal consequences. The government’s efforts aim to stabilize Bawku and prevent further violence.
In related news, John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), voiced serious concerns regarding the disruption of peace under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, particularly amidst the renewed chieftaincy conflict in Bawku. He lamented the resurgence of violence following Abagre’s return, which has already resulted in fatalities and injuries.
Speaking to supporters in Saboba on October 28, as part of his Northern regional campaign, Mahama called on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid violent provocations. He highlighted the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts and pledged to restore peace in Bawku if elected.
“Without peace, there cannot be progress,” he stated. “Unfortunately, whenever Ghana’s peace is disturbed, it seems to coincide with the NPP being in power. I urge everyone in Bawku to remain patient and restrained, despite provocations. The NDC is committed to ensuring peace in Bawku and surrounding areas.”
Mahama cautioned against trusting those who say one thing today and something else tomorrow, calling such individuals the most dangerous.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
