Mamprusi families have begun relocating from Bawku to Walewale and Nalerigu, amidst escalating hostilities. Reports indicate the move was triggered by the absence of essential supplies such as food and water, as local businesses ceased trading with them due to the intensifying conflict.
The mass departure, which started on Sunday, November 10, came shortly after four people were fatally shot by unknown assailants, plunging the town into further unrest. With military checkpoints stretching from Zebilla to Binduri, security escorts facilitated the evacuation efforts.
Fear and uncertainty have spiked along the Walewale highway, where ambushes have become a heightened concern. In Bawku, basic services and social amenities have deteriorated due to the ongoing violence, with a barrel of water now costing 20 cedis, compounding the hardship for those still residing in the area.
Background
Bawku’s conflict, rooted in a long-standing chieftaincy dispute, reignited on November 21, 2012, resulting in ongoing loss of life, displacement, and property destruction. Essential services such as banking, healthcare, and education have seen severe disruptions. After months of relative calm, tensions escalated again when a rival chief enskinned by the Nayiri in February re-emerged in October, sparking renewed chaos and violence.
