Two people have been killed, and several others injured following renewed violence in Bawku, a town in Ghana’s Upper East Region, amid ongoing chieftaincy tensions.
The deadly clashes reportedly broke out Saturday night, October 26, after Alhaji Seidu Abagre, a rival chief who had been living in exile, returned to Bawku.
Abagre’s return was enabled by a Kumasi High Court decision on October 17, 2024, which revoked a previous arrest order against him.
According to sources, his reappearance has re-ignited the long-standing dispute, resulting in exchanges of gunfire between opposing groups.
The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces have since ramped up efforts to restore order and prevent further violence in the area.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, security forces announced the deployment of additional Police and Military units in Bawku and its surrounding areas to manage the situation and maintain public safety.
“The Ghana Police Service and Ghana Armed Forces remain dedicated to maintaining peace and security in Bawku and its surroundings,” the statement emphasized, calling for calm among residents as they work to stabilize the volatile region.
To prevent spillover effects and ensure safer travel, the security forces have also increased their presence along the Bolgatanga-Walewale-Tamale highway, a key route that connects parts of the northern region.
According to the security statement, the heightened presence along the highway is intended to protect both residents and travellers, while controlling traffic and safeguarding lives and property.
The authorities reassured the public of their commitment to peace, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue over violence in resolving chieftaincy disputes.
