Ghana has deployed additional soldiers to a northeastern region plagued by a longstanding chieftaincy conflict that has recently escalated into violence.
A spokesperson for President John Dramani Mahama announced the deployment, noting that even schools had come under attack.
The Bawku chieftaincy conflict, dating back decades, remains one of Ghana’s most entrenched ethnic flashpoints, often resulting in deadly clashes. The dispute centres on claims by the Mamprusi and Kusaasi ethnic groups over the authority to appoint a chief in the region.
Mediation efforts led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and Ghana’s most respected traditional ruler, had “almost brought finality to the conflict”, but recent killings “necessitated drastic actions” to contain the situation, according to presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu.
Local media reported that violence in the area last week included the killing of a Kusaasi chief and three high school students, who were shot by gunmen on school campuses.
Ofosu did not disclose how many troops were being added to those already stationed near the border with Burkina Faso.
In a separate statement, he said a curfew would be enforced from 1400 GMT to 0600 GMT “until further notice”, adding that the restriction was aimed at restoring order and facilitating student evacuations.
(NAN)