Ghana Deploys Additional Troops, Imposes Curfew in Bawku Amid Escalating Chieftaincy Conflict
The Ghanaian government has deployed additional soldiers to the Bawku region in northern Ghana following a significant escalation of a decades-long chieftaincy dispute. This intensified military presence, confirmed by President John Dramani Mahama's spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on July 28, 2025, aims to quell recent violence that includes attacks on schools and the killing of a traditional leader.
Understanding the Bawku Chieftaincy Conflict:
The conflict in Bawku is one of Ghana's most protracted ethnic flashpoints, rooted in a historical rivalry between two major ethnic groups: the Mamprusi and Kusaasi. The core of the dispute revolves around the rightful authority to appoint a chief for the Bawku area, a disagreement that has persisted for decades, leading to recurrent violent clashes and loss of life. Historically, the Mamprusi held the Bawku "skin" (chieftaincy title), but demographic shifts and political dynamics have fueled claims from the Kusaasi, complicating resolution efforts.
Mediation efforts have been numerous, including recent attempts by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the revered Asantehene (King of the Asante Kingdom). According to Ofosu, these efforts had "almost brought finality to the conflict" before the latest surge in violence.
Recent Escalation and Casualties:
The past week saw a dangerous intensification of the conflict:
Killing of a Kusaasi Chief: A Kusaasi traditional leader was killed in a targeted attack.
Fatal School Attacks: Disturbingly, three high school students were killed by gunmen who stormed their school campuses, according to local media reports. These attacks have prompted significant alarm and triggered a more decisive government response.
Government's Robust Response:
The Ghanaian government has announced a shift in its strategy from a peacekeeping role to active "peace enforcement" to restore law and order:
Increased Military Presence: While soldiers were already stationed in Bawku, the government has deployed an unspecified number of additional troops to Bawku and its environs. The exact figures are not disclosed due to operational sensitivity.
Strict Curfew Imposed: A daily curfew is now in effect from 14:00 GMT (2:00 PM) until 06:00 GMT (6:00 AM) "until further notice." This measure is designed to help restore order and facilitate the safe evacuation of students from affected schools.
Protection Mandate: Presidential spokesperson Ofosu emphasized that the military has been explicitly instructed to "take all necessary measures to protect lives and property" and urged residents to cooperate fully with security forces.
Broader Context of Chieftaincy Disputes in Ghana:
Chieftaincy disputes are a recurring challenge across Ghana, often stemming from:
Succession Battles: Disagreements over who rightfully inherits traditional leadership titles.
Land and Resource Control: Conflicts over the ownership and management of traditional lands and natural resources.
Political Interference: External political influence can exacerbate existing disputes by supporting one faction over another.
Lack of Accountability: Issues with clear mechanisms for accountability among traditional rulers can prolong conflicts.
While Ghana is generally considered a peaceful nation, these localized conflicts can escalate, leading to significant violence, displacement, and disruption of social and economic life. The government's decisive action in Bawku underscores growing concern over the potential for this particular conflict to destabilize the wider region, especially given its proximity to the border with Burkina Faso.
The situation in Bawku remains tense, with security forces working actively to restore calm and stability to the troubled area.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
