Two people have been killed in separate attacks by unidentified gunmen in Bawku, escalating tensions in the already volatile area.
The incidents occurred on Monday, December 16, 2024, as the town continues to grapple with a resurgence of violence.
The first victim, Moro Aziz, a mentally unstable man from the Gozesi suburb, was reportedly killed near the Bawku cemetery. Aziz is believed to have wandered into the area, but the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
The second victim, identified as Kasim, was attacked in Daduri, another Bawku suburb, while attempting to relocate to a safer area. Eyewitnesses suggest the attackers specifically targeted him during his movements within the conflict zone.
These killings bring the death toll in Bawku to 35 since violence reignited in late October 2024. Despite the government’s implementation of a dawn-to-dusk curfew and increased security presence, peace remains elusive in the region.
The conflict in Bawku stems from a long-standing chieftaincy dispute. It initially flared in November 2021 following the installation of a rival chief but subsided temporarily in 2023. Violence resurfaced on October 25, 2024, reportedly triggered by the return of the rival chief, Alhaji Seidu Abagre, installed by the Nayir.
Since then, the town has experienced a wave of deadly clashes, with civilians caught in the crossfire. The security forces remain on high alert, but the situation in Bawku is described as unpredictable and tense.
Local leaders and advocacy groups have reiterated calls for dialogue and reconciliation to end the violence that continues to devastate the community. However, mistrust between factions has hindered progress toward a lasting resolution.
Authorities have urged residents to comply with the curfew and cooperate with security agencies to prevent further loss of life. Meanwhile, investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the latest attacks.
The renewed violence underscores the urgency of addressing the underlying causes of the conflict and restoring stability to Bawku.