The Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, has said the government will separate crime from issues related to traditional matters, especially in areas where chieftaincy disputes exist.
According to the Minister, many are hiding behind traditional matters to perpetuate crimes under the guise of chieftaincy disputes, highlighting the far-reaching implications, should these persons be allowed to go scot-free.
Addressing the media as part of the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 21, 2025, the Defence Minister indicated that the initiative is to help ensure that individuals who capitalise on chieftaincy issues to commit crimes are punished by the law.
“We shall always separate crimes from traditional matters, enabling us to deal appropriately and legally with criminals who foment trouble in the name of chieftaincy conflict,” Dr. Omane Boamah stated.
Citing the tensions in Alavanyo and Bawku, the Minister noted that the military was ever ready to avert any insurgency that may arise in the course of the period.
“We acknowledge that the situation in Bawku and Alavanyo and their immediate surroundings remains volatile. The Ghana Armed Forces is actively monitoring and has put in place robust mechanisms to ensure any potential escalation is swiftly contained in the interest of the people and long-lasting resolution of the conflict through dialogue,” he said.
He stressed that the government was committed to dialoguing to ensure lasting peace in these conflict-prone areas, reiterating the security agencies’ readiness to deal with perpetrators of crime hiding behind some of these traditions to carry out their actions.
His comments follow the renewed conflict in Bawku which many have expressed fear of potentially escalating to neighbouring communities.
Omane Boamah orders probe into Bawku insurgency, promises swift action
