Zebilla MP Cletus Avoka has accused the government of complicity in the ongoing chieftaincy crisis in Bawku, which has recently escalated into violence.

The resurgence of this long-standing conflict has been triggered by the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile, resulting in at least eight deaths and numerous injuries among residents.

In light of the security threats posed by the renewed violence, the Ghana Police Service has reassured the public of an enhanced security presence along the Bolga-Tamale highway following a shooting incident that occurred over the weekend.

This increased security measure aims to protect travellers and deter further outbreaks of violence in the region.

To address the unrest in Bawku, the government has instituted a curfew effective from October 28, 2024, mandating that residents remain indoors between 6 PM and 6 AM daily.

This decision was reached after an emergency meeting of the National Security Council, chaired by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in response to the deteriorating situation.

Speaking to Channel One TV on Monday, October 28, Avoka, who also serves on Parliament’s Security and Intelligence Committee, expressed frustration over the government's lack of proactive measures to resolve the ongoing conflict.

He emphasised that several attempts to urge the government to take action have proven unsuccessful, leading him to question the state's sincerity in addressing the crisis.

“This Bawku crisis could have been prevented if the government had lived up to its responsibility. If the government had demonstrated sincerity and commitment to have peace in Bawku. They have not done it."

“If they had taken the advice we gave them, we didn’t even have to give advice, the National Security, they know that it’s a security matter and as soon as the man, Alhaji Bagre enters Bawku, there will be conflict, there will be clashes and they didn’t.”