President John Mahama has announced plans to appoint key security ministers, including defense, interior, within the week as part of efforts to restore peace in Bawku, following years of conflict in the area.

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Speaking during a visit to Bawku on Tuesday, January 14, President Mahama reiterated his administration’s determination to resolve the long-standing tensions, emphasizing that stability in the region remains a top priority.

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“During the campaign, I stated that if God granted our desire and I was elected president, bringing peace to Bawku was going to be one of my number one priorities,” he said.

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The President assured residents that the formation of a full security leadership team would be completed soon, enabling a more coordinated effort to address the situation.

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“We are putting in place the various appointments so that we can have ministers and other officials responsible for security to take charge,” he explained. “Within this week, we will appoint the Minister of Defense, Minister of Interior, National Security Advisor, National Security Coordinator, BNI Director, and others. Once these appointments are made, I will charge them to make Bawku one of their top priorities.”

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President Mahama acknowledged the hardship and fear the people of Bawku have experienced over the past three years due to the prolonged conflict. He recalled a period of calm during his previous administration and assured the community of his full commitment to restoring that peace.

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“I want to assure you that I am fully apprised of the issues, and I am committed to dealing with them. Trust in myself and this administration, and by the grace of God, peace will be restored permanently to Bawku,” he added.

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The government recently imposed a dawn-to-dusk curfew in the area following renewed tensions linked to the controversial return of Seidu Abagre after a chieftaincy dispute. Despite the curfew, violence has persisted, with over 30 deaths reported in recent weeks.

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To curb the unrest, security forces have deployed surveillance drones to track movements and identify individuals responsible for the attacks. The use of drones has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of firearms, with authorities hopeful the technology will aid efforts to stabilize the area further.

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