The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for the strengthening of Ghana’s existing framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism following the killing of Ghanaian traders in a terrorist attack in Burkina Faso.

In a post on X on February 16, Dr Bawumia stated, “Our well-established framework for preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism should be strengthened.”

The attack, which reportedly targeted traders travelling through the area, has heightened concerns about cross-border security along established trade routes between Ghana and Burkina Faso.

Expressing sympathy to the bereaved families, he said, “The NPP, Samira, and I express our condolences to the families of the bereaved and our best wishes to the injured.” He also wished those receiving treatment a speedy recovery.

Dr Bawumia stressed that Ghanaian traders must not be left vulnerable while conducting lawful business and urged deeper regional security cooperation.

“Ghanaian traders must not be left to such peril as they go about their trade. I urge the government to deepen intelligence collaboration with all our neighbours to ensure Ghanaians are protected wherever they find themselves,” he stated.