District Chief Executive for Asante Akim North is asking residents to protect themselves against possible attacks by nomadic herdsmen.

Paul Kingsley Averu wants residents especially farmers to move in groups and carry weapons as attacks by nomadic herdsmen continue.

At least four persons, three nomadic herdsmen and one indigene have been killed this week alone at Agogo in the Asante Akim North district. 

Recent attacks at Kowereso resulted in the shooting of two nomadic herdsmen while a similar one at Salamkrom killed and wounded some indigenes and herdsmen respectively.

The attacks come as security personnel escort scores of herdsmen, most whom are Fulanis, along with about 1000 cattle out of Agogo as a March 31 ultimatum issued by traditional authorities in the area to all cattle owners draws closer.

Mr. Averu who heads the District Security Council wants residents to adopt self-defence measures as a team of police and military increase patrol and surveillance.

Mr. Averu said Wednesday on Burning Issues on Luv FM that “if it were you and you know there are bad people around, what would you have done? They should do whatever you have to do to protect yourself”

When the host of the show, David Akwetey, asked whether indigenes should acquire arms to protect themselves, the DCE parried the questions, saying he didn’t know about that.

“I don’t know about that. The cutlass is also a weapon. Isn’t it? Whichever way," he said.

"At times it is not necessary just holding an implement but even your demeanor; the way you are able to communicate with him [attacker] and the rest, is a way of disarming people,"he said.

He continued, “You and I know that as a rational human being, anybody thinks about his security; whatever you do to secure yourself."

Mr. Averu says dialogue has been identified as one of the effective tools to bring a lasting peace in the area.

According to him, a meeting between Security Council and nomadic herdsmen is scheduled for this week.