Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has condemned the gruesome killing of an official of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in the Upper East Region.

In a release on Tuesday, May 20, the MP for Bawku Central criticised the perpetrators of the dastardly act and called for swift justice to restore order in the region.

"I hereby condemn, in no uncertain terms, the shooting, killing, and burning of the body of Mohammed Seidu Akugri, who was the Bongo district director of the National Health Insurance Authority. The attack on him took place in Nangodi near Bolgatanga," he stated.

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He shared condolences with the family of the deceased and entreated "law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate and apprehend the perpetrators of this dastardly act."

"I urge all to remain calm, and let's focus on the ongoing efforts of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to bring a lasting solution to the Bawku situation. I commend the youth for the restraint displayed so far and their recent efforts to maintain peace in Bawku. Significant progress is being made, and no one should be allowed to derail the process," he added.

This heartbreaking incident adds to the growing list of casualties in the ongoing Bawku conflict, which has extended across the region and other parts of the north.

A decades-long dispute between the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, with over 300 deaths since November 2021.

A recent surge in violence has claimed scores of lives since hostilities reignited in October 2024.

The situation has become alarming, with no lives being spared as infants, soldiers, police officers, and other professionals have been killed in the last few months by armed assailants.

The attacks have added to the growing sense of insecurity and prompted calls for enhanced protection of public servants and essential service providers, particularly in volatile areas.

Despite intensified efforts by the government and security forces to contain the unrest and safeguard residents, armed groups continue to carry out deadly attacks, causing widespread fear and uncertainty.

Many families have been displaced, and economic activities in the region have been severely disrupted.

As authorities explore lasting solutions to the conflict, revered chieftaincy leaders led by Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, are engaging with factions of the warmongering groups.

The Asantehene has reaffirmed his commitment to resolving the long-standing dispute, stating that discussions with key stakeholders are ongoing to bring lasting peace to the area.