The Majority Leader and Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has issued a stern rebuke of the Ghana Armed Forces following reports of violent incidents in Bawku, including the destruction of a culturally significant statue and alleged assaults on civilians.
In a statement released on July 14, 2025, Mr. Ayariga condemned what he called the “unacceptable” demolition of a statue honoring the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II. The act, allegedly carried out by military personnel, has sparked outrage in the already volatile region.
“I condemn, in no uncertain terms, the unacceptable act of destruction of the statue of the Zugran… by some military personnel,” Ayariga said. “Such acts only serve to deepen tensions in an already fragile security environment.”
The MP also decried the military’s reported use of excessive force on July 13, characterizing it as a “clear act of brutality.” However, he balanced his criticism by condemning a gun attack earlier that same day, allegedly carried out by an unidentified youth on a vehicle under military escort.
Urging restraint, Ayariga called on the youth of Kusaug not to retaliate, warning that certain actors may be deliberately trying to escalate the conflict. “There are infiltrations into the ranks of the military by elements who seek to politicise and further destabilise the situation in Bawku,” he cautioned.
He extended condolences to families affected by the unrest and appealed for urgent intervention by national leaders. “The government must take urgent steps to investigate and restore peace,” he said.
Bawku has seen repeated outbreaks of violence in recent months, with clashes between security forces and local factions raising alarm among civil society and rights groups. The latest incidents have renewed calls for accountability, cultural sensitivity, and long-term conflict resolution in the region.
