The Oti Regional Minister, John Kodwo Gyampo, has confirmed that economic activities in Nkwanta have ground to a halt following the resurgence of tribal conflict in the area.

He disclosed that even though the tension is currently under control, banks and other commercial institutions have shut down, while schools remain closed as tension escalates between rival ethnic factions.

"When you come to Nkwanta, other businesses have also closed down their work. All the banks that work in Nkwanta have closed down, and these people (staff of the affected institutions) are leaving the town," he lamented on Joy News' News Desk on Monday, June 30.

The latest violence erupted on June 26 during a dispute over traditional rituals linked to the 2025 Yam Festival.

The disturbances led to exchanges of gunfire, which tragically claimed the life of a male student from Nkwanta Senior High School. The student was reportedly hit by a stray bullet while participating in a mock examination.

In response to the incident, the Ghana Education Service has ordered the immediate closure of the school. Security personnel have since been deployed to escort students to safety, as at least three students were injured during the unrest.

The conflict in Nkwanta is not new. It stems from a protracted chieftaincy and land dispute involving the Challa, Adele, Akyode, and Ntrubo ethnic groups.

According to the Minister, the Regional Security Council has been activated to manage the situation, with him calling for calm and urging traditional leaders and local stakeholders to commit to peace dialogues.