A commercial driver has been killed in the latest outbreak of violence in Bawku, northern Ghana, raising the death toll in the region’s ongoing conflict to 21. The driver, identified as “Maadi,” was reportedly ambushed and killed on his route to Bolgatanga on Saturday, November 2. His vehicle was set ablaze in the attack, further escalating tensions.

The resurgence of violence in Bawku is believed to be linked to the recent return of Alhaji Seidu Abagre, a rival chief who had been in exile since February 2023. Alhaji Abagre faced an arrest warrant after his disputed installation as chief in Nalerigu, a move that had initially stirred tensions. However, an October 17 ruling by the High Court in Kumasi nullified the warrant, paving the way for his return to the area on October 24.

Since his arrival, a series of violent incidents have erupted, with exchanges of gunfire leaving at least two dead and multiple others injured. Local authorities, facing mounting instability, have imposed a curfew from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, with security forces intensifying their presence to prevent further clashes.

The Bawku conflict, rooted in a protracted chieftaincy dispute, continues to strain peace efforts in the region, and there are growing concerns over the ability of security forces to manage the violence and protect civilians in the volatile area.

Source:TheDotNews