A 61-year-old man, known locally as OB, was tragically killed in Mazema, a suburb of Bawku, after being caught in a crossfire during recent shootouts.

OB, an alms beggar in the area, lost his life in the renewed violence, bringing the death toll from the conflict to 22.

The latest outbreak of violence follows the return of Seidu Abagre, a rival chief appointed by the Nayiri.

Abagre, who had been exiled since February 2023 due to an arrest warrant over his contested installation as chief in Nalerigu, was allowed to return after the Kumasi High Court overturned the warrant on October 17, 2024.

Abagre’s arrival in Bawku on October 26 sparked fresh tensions, reigniting a protracted chieftaincy dispute that has plagued the region for years.

His return triggered a series of gunfire exchanges, initially leaving two people dead and several others injured, as rival factions clashed over the leadership conflict.

In response to the escalating situation, local security forces have imposed a strict curfew in Bawku, running from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The curfew aims to limit movement within the town, curb the violence, and protect residents as tensions remain high.