The Ghana Police Service has assured the general public of its commitment to restoring peace and stability in Bawku following violent confrontations between some youth groups and law enforcement officers on Thursday, April 10.
The clashes reportedly resulted in fatalities, injuries, and significant property damage, including the vandalization of private residences. The situation has heightened tensions in the already volatile municipality.
In a statement issued by the Police, it was revealed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, will lead a high-powered delegation to Bawku. The team, comprising members of the Police Management Board and experts from the National Police Headquarters, is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on the overlord of Bawku, Zugraan Bawku Naaba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II.
“During the visit, the IGP and his team will hold consultations with the overlord of Bawku and seek his counsel and support as the team works together with other stakeholders to resolve some misunderstanding between some youth groups of the town and the police which resulted in violence on 9th April, 2025,” the statement said.
The Police emphasized their commitment to collaborating with all key stakeholders to enhance security in Bawku and its surrounding communities.
Curfew Hours Reviewed
In a related development, the Minister for the Interior has, based on advice from the Upper East Regional Security Council and by Executive Instrument, reviewed the curfew hours in Bawku and its environs.
The new curfew, which took effect on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, now restricts movement from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. daily.
The Minister’s statement further imposed a total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapon within the affected areas. “Any persons found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted,” it warned.
MP Mahama Ayariga Condemns Violence
Member of Parliament for Bawku, Mahama Ayariga, has condemned the violence, expressing deep concern over the loss of lives and an attempted attack on his private residence.
In a statement issued from abroad, Mr. Ayariga attributed the unrest to rising frustrations among the youth over the prolonged chieftaincy dispute and alleged misconduct by certain law enforcement personnel.
“I understand the anger and frustration of the youth about the pace of the resolution of the situation in Bawku and Kusaaug and the misconduct of some misguided law enforcement officers,” he stated.
The MP reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution through constitutional and legal means and urged all residents to exercise restraint and maintain constructive relations with security agencies.
Mr. Ayariga also expressed confidence in the peace process led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in collaboration with the overlords of Kusaaug and Mamprugu, and the support of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
He dismissed accusations and social media campaigns allegedly aimed at tarnishing his image, saying: “The smear campaign on social media will not distract me. In the end, we will be vindicated.”
