From Crisis To Clampdown: Ghana Deploys Military As Bawku Conflict Claims More Lives
Government tightens curfew as Bawku conflict turns deadlier
The Ghanaian government has intensified military presence and imposed tighter curfews in Bawku, Nalerigu, and other parts of the Upper East and North East Regions following a surge in conflict-related killings that claimed the lives of three students on Saturday.
In what is now a national security emergency, gunmen stormed two senior high schools — killing two students in Nalerigu and one in Bawku. The killings are suspected to be tied to the prolonged Bawku chieftaincy conflict, which has triggered sporadic violence for years.
Violence spreads beyond Bawku: Asawase under fire too
Only days before the school killings, Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe, the Kusasi Chief in Ashanti Region, was fatally shot in his home at Asawase. The murder was quickly followed by another broad-daylight shooting in the same community, further escalating tensions and public outcry.
These events signal that violence linked to the Bawku dispute is expanding, and now affects areas far beyond the conflict’s historical base.
Peacekeeping to peace enforcement: Presidency takes action
In a strongly worded press release from the Presidency, signed by Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the government announced a strategic shift from “peacekeeping” to “peace enforcement.”
“The Ghana Armed Forces have been deployed to maintain law and order, as we intensify curfews to ensure public safety,” the statement read.
The announcement confirmed military deployments to flashpoints, new dusk-to-dawn curfews, and a ban on the possession of weapons in affected areas like Nalerigu.
Traditional leaders praised, mediation efforts continue
While the violence continues, the government acknowledged the important role of traditional leaders, particularly Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Nayiri, and the Zugraana, whose prior mediation efforts nearly resolved the crisis before this resurgence.
“These very recent killings have necessitated drastic actions to protect all in the interest of the greater good,” the statement noted.
Citizens urged to cooperate amid tight security
The government is urging all residents in affected regions to:
- Avoid any form of retaliation
- Cooperate fully with security forces
- Respect the imposed curfews and arms restrictions
Though the increased military presence may cause inconvenience, authorities insist that restoring calm is of paramount national importance.
Call to action: Support peace, report violence, protect lives
The Bawku conflict has already cost too many lives — including innocent students. Now is the time to speak out, report threats, and support peace initiatives. Ghana cannot afford another generation plagued by unresolved tribal or chieftaincy disputes.
Take-home messages
- Three students were killed in what is suspected to be Bawku conflict-related violence.
- The government has deployed troops and shifted strategy to peace enforcement.
- Dusk-to-dawn curfews and weapons bans are now active in affected regions.
- Traditional leaders like Otumfuo Osei Tutu II continue to mediate for long-term peace.
- Citizens are being called upon to cooperate fully to help secure and stabilize the region.
