The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, has called on the residents of Bawku to focus on fostering calm and unity, urging them not to politicize the growing conflict in the region.

His appeal came during a media briefing on October 29, where he highlighted the government's dedication to restoring peace amid ongoing unrest stemming from unresolved chieftaincy and ethnic disputes.

The minister's call for unity follows a distressing incident on October 27, in which gunmen attacked travelers on the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi, resulting in the tragic deaths of eight individuals.

Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants questioned their victims before opening fire and also set two vehicles ablaze, heightening fears within the community and prompting urgent calls for government action.

Asamoah Boateng reassured the public of the government's commitment to working impartially with all involved parties.

He stated,“I will implore all sides to stop the conspiracy theories going around and the blame games and keep calm and allow the government to deal with the security and chieftaincy issues therefore. No one should play politics with this sensitive matter and I will continue to engage my colleagues in the political arena from all sides to work with the government to resolve the current problems and work towards lasting peace in the area.”

Additionally, he called upon traditional leaders to avoid any actions that could escalate tensions, emphasizing “I strongly call on the traditional leaders from both sides to refrain from any act that will escalate the situation.”