Bawku Conflict: Gov’t Anticipates Escalation Following Seidu Abagre’s Return

The government of Ghana is anticipating an escalation of the Bawku conflict between the Mamprusis and the Kusasis following the return of Mr Seidu Abagre to the town.

The government confirmed his return stoked the tensions between the factions over the weekend.

On Sunday, reports indicated that eight people were killed when the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway was blocked by gunmen who opened fire on oncoming vehicles.

This followed Saturday night’s gun battle that claimed two lives and maimed numerous others.

Threat to Peace
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Minister of Interior, Hon Naana Eyiah, on October 28, 2024, the continuous presence of Mr. Seidu Abagre in Bawku poses a substantial threat to public safety and security.

“Unfortunately, these disturbances have resulted in the loss of numerous lives in Bawku and its environs, with a looming threat of escalation beyond Bawku.”

Mr. Seidu Abagre, according to the government, was illegally enskinned as Bawku Naba in February 2023. An arrest warrant was issued against him which was subsequently cancelled by the Court of Appeal in Kumasi.

He is said to have returned to Bawku on October 24.

Curfew
Following the renewal of the tension, an emergency National Security meeting was held on October 28, under the chairmanship of the President of the Republic which decided to impose a curfew on the town with the government deeming Mr Seidu as a threat to “public peace and security in the area”.

“Based on assessments by national security agencies, the continued presence of Mr. Seidu Abagre in Bawku poses a substantial threat to public safety and security. In light of the foregoing, pursuant to the provisions of the Public Order Act, 1994 (Act 491), a curfew is, hereby, imposed on Bawku from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, commencing today, Monday, 28″ October 2024, until further notice.”

It noted that Security agencies have been directed to enforce strictly the curfew and maintain law and order while residents have been urged to comply with the curfew.

“Residents are urged to comply with this directive and co-operate fully with the security agencies to restore peace and normalcy in the area. Any person found violating this curfew will face the full consequences of the law.”

Meanwhile, the government assured of its commitment to taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the people of Bawku and its environs.

Conflict
The Bawku conflict between the Mamprusis and the Kusasis began in 1932 when both factions sought to impose their legitimacy over the town.

According to Rev Professor John Zumah, the Executive Director of the Sanneh Institute and Visiting Professor of Yale University, the issue is not so much as to who is the legitimate Bawku Naba currently, but whose traditional homeland is Bawku.

The conflict has claimed the lives of many as well as millions of cedis. The Africa Report says 20 people died between December 2022 and February 2023 as a result of the conflict.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini