Dr. Victor Doke, a security expert and lecturer at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, has warned that the fragile peace process in Bawku risks being derailed if trust between residents and security agencies is not urgently restored.

In an interview on the AM Show on JoyNews, Dr. Doke stressed that effective security operations depend heavily on the confidence of the people they are mandated to protect.

He noted that without a strong relationship between the community and security forces, ongoing efforts to stabilize the troubled region could be severely compromised.

“The absence of trust in security institutions is a dangerous gap that could easily undo the progress made toward peace," Dr. Doke emphasized.

"Security personnel must demonstrate their commitment to impartial protection and community safety to win back the confidence of the people."

Dr. Doke further explained that rebuilding trust would require not just the prevention of attacks but also proactive engagement with local leaders and the broader community.

He highlighted that visible fairness, professionalism, and accountability from the security forces are crucial steps toward convincing the population that their safety is a priority.

As tensions in Bawku continue to simmer despite peace initiatives, Dr. Doke urged authorities to invest in confidence-building measures, warning that failure to do so could lead to renewed hostilities and a prolonged conflict.

"The road to lasting peace is through trust. If people feel the security system is biased or unreliable, no peace process will succeed," he concluded.