Address Escalating Bawku Conflict Now – Hassan Ayariga Tells Government

The Presidential Candidate of the All People's Congress, Hassan Ayariga, has expressed deep worry about the escalating conflict in Bawku. Speaking at the launch of the National Peace Campaign on November 3, Ayariga called for immediate government intervention to address the rising violence that has already claimed 21 lives.

"Today, I can't sleep because Bawku is at war. As I speak to you now, there are gunshots everywhere. Peace is expensive, but war is more expensive," Ayariga said, painting a vivid picture of the dire situation. He underlined how peace  would ensure stability, with the 2024 elections in view. With references to regional instability, he warned of the wider repercussions for Ghana if the conflict remained unsolved: "Burkina Faso is at war; we can't go there. Togo is not as peaceful as we think that the neighbouring country is the sea; we can't swim."

Hassan Ayariga's comments were not a special plea to the government alone but an invitation to all stakeholders—media, religious leaders, and civil society to join in the advocacy for peace. He emphasized that the Bawku conflict was assuming a national dimension. "The problem in Bawku is escalating. The earlier we solve it, the better for us," he pleaded.

This conflict, fueled by the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile, has brought about the worst effect in the district: attacks against travelers, the closure of schools, and suspension of all business activity. It is said that one of Ayariga's own bodyguards fell in the clashes-a very good testament to the human cost involved.

The security forces, to contain the violence, have imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew, starting at 6:00 am and ending at 6:00 pm. The impassioned appeal Ayariga has made now becomes some point in time when reminded of all the collective responsibility on wheels for restoration of peace and protection of livelihoods in Bawku.