Hassan Ayariga, the Presidential Candidate for the All People’s Congress (APC), has voiced his deep concerns about the ongoing conflict in Bawku, urging the government to intervene promptly to prevent further escalation. Speaking at the launch of the National Peace Campaign on Saturday, November 3, Ayariga highlighted the gravity of the situation, which has led to the tragic loss of 21 lives and poses a severe threat to stability as Ghana approaches the 2024 elections.
In his address, Ayariga expressed his distress over the volatile situation in Bawku, describing how it has reached a level where he finds it difficult to sleep, knowing that the people in the region are caught in constant gunfire. He urged the government to recognize the broader implications of the Bawku crisis, warning that inaction could lead to greater instability that might affect the entire country. “Today, I can’t sleep because Bawku is at war. As I speak to you now, gunshots are everywhere,” Ayariga lamented. “Peace is expensive, but war is more expensive. Burkina Faso is at war; we can’t go there. Togo is not as peaceful as we think. The neighboring country is the sea, we can’t swim.”
Ayariga emphasized that the issues in Bawku are not limited to the region’s residents but impact Ghana as a whole, urging swift and decisive action to restore peace. His call to action was directed not only at the government but also at media, religious leaders, and community members, whom he encouraged to join forces in promoting peace and advocating for an end to the conflict. “The government needs to come out clearly. Bawku’s problem is not for the people of Bawku alone; it is for the whole country. The earlier we solve the problem of Bawku, the better for us,” he said. Ayariga also appealed to the media and clergy, stressing the importance of their roles in fostering dialogue and facilitating peacebuilding efforts.
The impact of the conflict has been far-reaching, leading to a significant disruption of daily life in Bawku. Schools and major businesses have been forced to close, affecting both education and the local economy. The ongoing violence has left residents in a state of uncertainty, with many fearing for their lives as the situation remains tense. Ayariga shared a personal account of the toll the conflict has taken, revealing that one of his own bodyguards had become a casualty in the clashes. His emotional appeal underscored the human cost of the conflict, which continues to threaten lives and livelihoods in the region.
The crisis in Bawku intensified following the recent return of a rival chief, Alhaji Seidu Abagre, who had previously been in exile. This development has heightened existing tensions, with incidents of ambushes targeting travelers adding to the cycle of violence. The resurgence of conflict has made it difficult for security forces to maintain order, while the local population remains vulnerable to unpredictable and often deadly confrontations.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the government has imposed a curfew from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm in an attempt to curb the violence. Security agencies are actively enforcing the curfew, hoping to prevent further clashes and create a safer environment for residents. However, despite these measures, the road to peace remains uncertain, with the situation in Bawku still posing significant challenges.
Ayariga’s passionate plea for government action reflects his commitment to peace and stability in Ghana. His remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing regional conflicts proactively to prevent them from undermining national security. As the nation approaches a pivotal election year, his message resonates with a growing call for unity and collective effort to address the root causes of the Bawku crisis and ensure a peaceful future for all Ghanaians.
