Recent violence erupted at dawn in the villages of Lukula and Nyoagbini located in the North Gonja District. Disturbing reports indicate that both communities have been set on fire, resulting in numerous casualties.
The root cause of this outbreak of violence can be traced back to the longstanding tension between the Mamprusi and Gonja tribal groups.
In response to the escalating situation, residents are fleeing to neighboring communities in the West Mamprusi municipality for safety.
On Wednesday, a group of five individuals who sought refuge in Janga near Walewale shared their account, revealing that warriors from Daboya, allegedly belonging to the Gonja group, forcefully entered the village and ordered all Mamprusis to evacuate immediately under the threat of severe consequences.
The tension had initially resurfaced on Tuesday, June 30, following reports that the Mamprusi side had dispatched warriors to prevent the arrival of a rival chief from Daboya.
To address the escalating conflict, the National Security issued a warning on June 30, urging both sides to withdraw their warriors from the affected villages. As a result, law enforcement authorities deployed police personnel, leading to the arrest of several suspects and the confiscation of ten motorbikes.
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However, fleeing residents report that the Gonja traditional warriors remain in the village and have refused to withdraw.
It is important to note that the violence between the Mamprusi and Gonja tribes in the area has been an ongoing issue since the creation of the new regions.
The situation calls for immediate attention and resolution to prevent further loss of life and property. Efforts should be made to engage both tribal groups in dialogue and promote peaceful coexistence to bring an end to the recurring conflicts.
