Residents in Bawku express displeasure over the imposed curfew. The residents indicated that they do not need any curfew in Bawku, but they seek justice.
The Bawku conflict, a longstanding issue in Ghana’s Upper East Region, centers around a prolonged chieftaincy dispute between the Mamprusi and Kusasi ethnic groups, both of which claim the rightful authority to the Bawku Naba title. This deep-rooted rivalry has frequently led to violence, with periods of calm interrupted by escalations. The government has periodically intervened by imposing curfews and deploying security personnel, although tensions continue due to unresolved disputes and competing claims to the chieftaincy.
The government explained in the release that the curfew was prompted by growing concerns for public safety following the return of Seidu Abagre, an individual allegedly involved in a dispute over the Bawku Naba title. They noted that “the return to Bawku, on 24th October 2024, of Mr. Seidu Abagre, who was illegally enskinned as Bawku Naba in February 2023,” has led to unrest and “significant disturbances affecting public peace and security in the area.”
Some residents expressed their disappointment with the imposed curfew in Bawku. One resident said, “It’s a wrong thing. Walewale is also involved in this crisis so the government should also impose a curfew in Walewale”.
One other reiterated, “They are brutalizing and beating widows in our outskirts and leaving those inside. These are the main causes. Why should they impose a curfew on us? Since years back till date, there has been no peace in Bawku. The curfew cannot bring peace in Bawku. Unless they arrest Seidu Abagre”.
Another resident also said, “The government has made a huge mistake. The curfew won’t solve the problem; instead, the return of Seidu Adagre is what they detest”.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Agnes Gyamfuaa Ofosu
