Tensions in Bawku have escalated once again, prompting a firm response from the Majority Leader and MP for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga.
In a passionate press release dated Monday, July 14, he fiercely denounced the conduct of military personnel deployed to the area, accusing them of engaging in violent acts against civilians and desecrating a revered cultural symbol.
According to Ayariga, a group of soldiers reportedly demolished the statue of Zugran Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, a monumental figure in the Kusaug Traditional Area. The act, he stated, was deeply offensive to the community’s cultural heritage.
“I condemn, in no uncertain terms, the unacceptable act of destruction of the statue of the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, by some military personnel,” the MP declared.
But the destruction of the statue wasn’t the only issue that drew Ayariga’s ire. He also spoke out against alleged acts of brutality committed by soldiers against residents of Bawku. “This conduct is unacceptable,” he insisted, demanding immediate investigations by the military high command into the events of Sunday, July 13.
Despite his outrage at the military’s actions, Ayariga was quick to denounce violence from all sides. He condemned a separate incident in which unidentified gunmen attacked a vehicle under military escort, describing the act as reckless and dangerous.
“The violent gun attack by an unknown youth on the vehicle escorted by soldiers is equally condemned, and further attacks must cease,” he warned, urging an end to the bloodshed plaguing the troubled town.
In his call for peace, the Bawku Central legislator acknowledged the complexity of the current crisis, citing suspicions of political infiltration within the military ranks as a possible factor behind the unrest. He urged the government to intervene swiftly and transparently to address the growing tensions.
“I appeal to the Kusasis youth to calm down as government takes urgent steps to investigate the infiltrations into the ranks of the military by elements who seek to politicise and further destabilise the situation in Bawku,” Ayariga said.
The MP also extended heartfelt sympathies to the families affected by the recent chaos. “I extend my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and those who suffered as a result of the clashes,” he concluded.
