President John Dramani Mahama has made a passionate appeal to residents of Bawku in the Upper East Region and Nkwanta in the Oti Region to embrace peace and end the cycle of violence that has claimed innocent lives, including students.
Speaking at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, during a meeting with traditional leaders, President Mahama condemned the recent killings and called for collective support for the peace mediation efforts led by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
“We can’t accept the current situation where students are shot and killed. Teachers and students have fled Bawku out of fear for their lives,” the president lamented.
“Let us give peace a chance—not only in Bawku but in Nkwanta and all the other conflict-prone areas.”
He noted that the Asantehene’s mediation had made significant progress and cautioned that the renewed violence appears to be an attempt by certain groups to derail the peace process.
President Mahama announced a new directive to the military, shifting their role in the conflict zones from peacekeeping to peace enforcement, giving them more authority to deal decisively with those involved in criminal activities.
“The army has been directed to move from peacekeeping to peace enforcement, meaning they will be more robust with anyone involved in criminality,” he stated firmly.
Government Imposes Curfew, Bans Weapons
In response to the unrest, the Ministry of the Interior, acting on the advice of regional security councils, has imposed a curfew from 2:00 pm to 6:00 am in both Nalerigu and Bawku effective Sunday, July 27, until further notice.
Additionally, there is now a total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons in both townships and their environs. Anyone found violating this directive will be arrested and prosecuted.
“Government calls on the Chiefs, Elders, Opinion Leaders, Youth and people of the area to exercise restraint and use non-violent means to pursue peace,” the statement said.
Student Killings Prompt Evacuations
The government’s actions come after two students at Nalerigu Senior High School were shot and killed by unknown gunmen in the early hours of Saturday, July 26.
As a result, the government has begun evacuating students from Bawku, Nalerigu, and other affected towns where educational institutions have become targets in the conflict.
According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, the curfew aims to facilitate the safe evacuation of students and enable the Ghana Armed Forces to restore law and order.
“This is a shift from peacekeeping to peace enforcement. We assure the public that the Ghana Armed Forces will take all necessary measures to protect lives and property,” his statement said.
Defence Ministry Pledges Security Reforms
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security. In a statement posted on social media, he announced that efforts are underway to retool the Ghana Armed Forces to meet internal security challenges and protect Ghana’s sovereignty.
“Lasting peace shall surely return to Bawku and all affected areas. Let’s collaborate and build a safer, stronger Ghana together,” Dr. Boamah posted.
As tensions remain high, the government is urging all stakeholders—including traditional authorities and youth leaders—to support efforts to resolve the Bawku conflict and prevent further bloodshed.
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