 to Bawku as a significant and positive step){kind=link}
Security analyst Nana Appiah Owusu has described the recent visit by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to Bawku as a significant and positive step toward restoring calm in the troubled municipality.
Speaking on Bullet TV’s News Night hosted by Nana Yaw Finako (The Speaker), Mr. Owusu said it was commendable that the IGP, Christian Tetteh Yohonu, chose to visit the conflict zone himself rather than rely solely on reports from the ground.
“Given the early days of his tenure and the resurgence of violence in Bawku, his decision to personally assess the situation, engage with his officers, and interact with traditional leaders and the local population must be acknowledged as a mark of commitment and leadership,” the analyst stated.
Bawku has once again been gripped by violent clashes in recent weeks, resulting in multiple deaths, injuries, and the destruction of property. The situation has led to the closure of schools, disruption of essential services, and heightened insecurity in the region.
Mr. Owusu noted that while some sections of the public have cast doubt on the impact of the IGP’s visit, it should be recognized that such high-level engagements carry symbolic and practical importance.
“The people of Bawku are looking for more than political promises. They want assurance, neutrality, and commitment from the security leadership. What they heard from the IGP largely met those expectations,” he added.
He also cautioned against the politicization of the conflict, indicating that many of the youth on both sides have spoken out against attempts by political actors to use the situation for partisan gains.
“What the people of Bawku want is peace, not politics. Both factions have been vocal about rejecting political interference. Their only remaining hope lies with the security agencies to be neutral, firm, and truthful in restoring law and order,” – Mr. Owusu stressed.
The security analyst urged Ghanaians, particularly media practitioners, to focus on the constructive outcomes of the IGP’s visit rather than feed into narratives that undermine national efforts toward peace.
His comments come on the back of calls by the National Peace Council for calm and a return to dialogue, and recent appeals by Members of Parliament and traditional authorities for a more coordinated response to the conflict.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu