The Kusaug Traditional Council has appealled for calm and renewed efforts to restore lasting peace in the Bawku area and surrounding communities, following the recent escalation of violence that claimed multiple lives, including three students from Bawku and Nalerigu Senior High Schools.

In a statement released on Tuesday July 29, the Council expressed deep sorrow over the “needless conflict” that continues to grip the Kusaug Traditional Area and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

“This is a time for sober reflection,” the statement noted. “The needless loss of life, disruption of communities, and long-standing curfews are painful reminders of the cost of actions that flout legal and constitutional norms.”

The Council reaffirmed its position on the legitimacy of the Bawku skin, emphasising that for over four decades, the area has been under the rule of a legitimately enskinned Paramount Chief recognised by Ghanaian law.

It cited multiple legal affirmations, including rulings from the Supreme Court, decisions by the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs, and endorsements from successive governments.

According to the Council, the ongoing instability has been fueled by external interference attempting to challenge this recognised authority.

“The unfortunate escalation of tensions did not originate from within Kusaug but was triggered by external actions,” the statement stressed.

The Traditional Council voiced concern that the conflict has now spilled beyond Bawku, destabilising previously peaceful areas such as Bolgatanga, Goaso, Accra, and Kumasi.

It warned that this growing spread of fear and mistrust is a threat to national unity and peaceful coexistence.

In response, the Council called for the equitable and decisive enforcement of peacekeeping measures, including curfews and law enforcement actions.

“No group should feel above the law,” the statement read. “It is only through equal application of justice and respect for legitimate authority that lasting peace can be achieved.”

The Overlord of Kusaug, Zug-Raan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, who signed the statement, urged all parties to reject inflammatory rhetoric and embrace dialogue, civil engagement, and respect for traditional and legal boundaries.

“May we all work towards a future where our children can attend school without fear, where our communities can thrive in unity, and where our traditions are a source of strength—not division,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has officially declared a shift from peacekeeping to peace enforcement operations in the conflict-prone Bawku area and surrounding communities, citing rising insecurity and repeated violent incidents that threaten national stability.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 29, the GAF announced that the transition, which takes immediate effect, follows a directive from President and Commander-in-Chief John Dramani Mahama.