The Member of Parliament for Zebilla, Cletus Avoka, has accused the government of complicity in the renewed chieftaincy crisis in Bawku.

This escalation of violence follows the resurgence of a long-standing chieftaincy conflict, sparked by the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile.

The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least eight individuals and numerous injuries.

In response to the security threats, the Ghana Police Service has assured the public of an increased security presence along the Bolga-Tamale highway following a recent shooting incident over the weekend.

To address the unrest, the government has imposed a curfew in Bawku, effective October 28, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM daily.

This decision was made after an emergency meeting of the National Security Council, chaired by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

Speaking to Channel One News on Monday, October 28, Avoka, who is also a member of Parliament’s Security and Intelligence Committee, stated that several attempts to prompt the government to take proactive measures in addressing the conflict have proven futile. He accused the state of insincerity in resolving the ongoing crisis.

“This Bawku crisis could have been prevented if the government had lived up to its responsibility. If the government had demonstrated sincerity and commitment to have peace in Bawku. They have not done it.

“If they had taken the advice we gave them, we didn’t even have to give advice, the National Security, they know that it’s a security matter and as soon as the man, Alhaji Bagre enters Bawku, there will be conflict, there will be clashes and they didn’t.”

Cletus Avoka however shot down calls for a state of emergency to be declared in Bawku and its environs to address the escalating tensions in the area.