Mamprugu King Calls on Government to End Armed Violence in Bawku
The King of Mamprugu, Na Bohaga Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, has made a passionate appeal to the government to take immediate and decisive action to end the escalating violence in the Bawku Traditional Area of the Upper East Region.
At a press conference held at his palace in Nalerigu, the Mamprugu overlord expressed deep concern over the recent unrest and rising insecurity, particularly attacks on security personnel and acts of banditry along the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Poulimakom international corridor.
The latest wave of violence has claimed the lives of two police officers, with two others injured, including an immigration officer. Tensions in Bawku flared up after a Kusasi youth leader reportedly died during a protest sparked by allegations of police bias. The youth accused the police of favoring certain groups during a market dispute involving women traders.
Following the incident, angry youth went on a rampage, burning police barracks and attacking the residences of senior officers, including the Bawku Divisional Police Commander. Police stations in Pusiga and Binduri were also targeted, along with several installations along the highway.
Even the Inspector General of Police, during a reconciliatory visit to the area, was not spared—the IGP’s vehicle was damaged by armed bandits in a brazen attack.
In his statement, the Nayiri offered condolences to the families of the slain officers and urged the government to act swiftly to prevent further chaos.
I strongly appeal to the government to increase security personnel and logistics in the area to restore law and order. Though costly, this measure is far more prudent than bearing the long-term price of insecurity,” the Mamprugu overlord stated.
He called for security forces to be allowed to operate without political interference and emphasized the need for them to pursue and apprehend those responsible for destabilizing the region.
The Nayiri condemned reports of an economic embargo allegedly imposed by armed groups, which has made it unsafe for Mamprusis and sympathizers to travel in and out of Bawku. He described the development as “totally unacceptable” and called on the government to guarantee free movement of goods and services along the international corridor.
He also urged that innocent traders—especially women and children from Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Togo—be allowed to conduct business safely, without intimidation or violence.
The King concluded by urging the youth of Mamprugu to remain calm and law-abiding during this period of unrest.
Let us uphold the values of peace and allow existing national structures to work towards lasting solutions,” he said, adding that he trusts President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to lead efforts to restore peace and harmony to Bawku.
The Nayiri’s strong call for national attention on Bawku comes at a time when security in northern Ghana remains a major concern, with various stakeholders urging immediate interventions to prevent further escalation.