The Ministry of the Interior has implemented a nightly curfew in Bawku, Upper East Region, effective from October 28, 2024, due to a surge in deadly violence.

The curfew, lasting from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, follows an emergency session of the National Security Council chaired by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to address the renewed tensions stemming from a long-standing chieftaincy dispute.

This recent wave of unrest was sparked by the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile, whose presence has heightened the conflict, resulting in the tragic loss of at least eight lives and injuries in attacks, including an ambush on travelers.

In a statement, the Ministry of the Interior noted that Abagre’s presence posed a critical risk to peace, leading to the decision for a strict curfew.

Residents are urged to observe the curfew and cooperate with security personnel tasked with maintaining order.

Law enforcement has been mobilized to ensure full compliance, and the ministry has issued a warning that violators of the curfew will face legal action. These security measures aim to bring calm to Bawku and avert any further escalation of violence.