The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has dismissed calls for the declaration of a state of emergency in the Bawku enclaves following a recent resurgence of violence in the area.
Bawku and its environs have since Thursday, April 10 been in an uproar resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries including the burning of the home of the Majority Leader and Member of Parliament for the Constituency, Mahama Ayariga.
Some stakeholders and residents have called on the government to declare a state of emergency to restore calm in response to the resurgent tensions. Minister Akamugri disagrees, saying that the current situation does not warrant such an intervention.
“Declaring a state of emergency in Bawku and its environs is not necessary because it is not an all-war situation. It is not like sporadic where every day they are fighting each other. It is an instance that sparks up issues, and it is brought under control. So, why will [we] declare a state of emergency?” he questioned.
He further called for a collective effort in finding a long-lasting solution to the unending tensions.
“We need to resolve the Bawku conflict, and so anyone with ideas on how this can be done should come to our aid so we can lay this matter to rest and bring peace to people.” He stated.
