–BY Issah Olegor
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has issued a strong warning to individuals or groups perpetuating violence in Bawku, declaring that any attack on military personnel or civilians will be met with “full and deliberate strength.”
The warning comes amidst continued unrest in the Upper East regional town, which has long been plagued by intermittent ethnic and chieftaincy-related clashes.
During a press briefing following his recent working visit to Bawku, the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, emphasized the military’s uncompromising position in ensuring peace and stability in the conflict-ridden area.
“I want to assure the people of Bawku and the entire nation that the Ghana Armed Forces is committed to its responsibility of protecting lives and properties,” Major General Gbetanu said.
“We will not relent in our efforts to create an environment of peace and security.”
He issued a direct caution to those responsible for the recurrent violence, stating, “Let me however serve a word of caution to all, especially those fomenting the trouble in Bawku, that their days are getting numbered.”
“Any attack on innocent civilians or any military personnel will be considered as an accident of extremism and will be met with the deliberate full strength and resolve of our forces.”
Bawku has experienced a series of violent clashes over the years, often rooted in complex ethnic rivalries and contested claims to traditional authority.
These conflicts have led to multiple fatalities, displacement of residents, and destruction of property, prompting a consistent military presence as part of efforts to stabilize the area.
As part of his visit, Major General Gbetanu reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to working with local authorities and traditional leaders to find a sustainable resolution.
“The military is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders,” he said, adding that peace in Bawku is “a shared responsibility.”
The Chief of Army Staff was accompanied by key military figures including Brigadier General Frank Nartey Tei, General Officer Commanding the Northern Command; Colonel Emmanuel Larbi Gyadu, Director of Operations of the Ghana Armed Forces; Colonel Rosslyn Foli Atiogbe, Commander of the Bawku Taskforce; and Lieutenant Colonel Kara Sau-Antwi, Commander Rear of the 11 Mechanized Battalion.
In response to the army’s call for collaboration, the Bawku Naba, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, pledged the support of the Bawku Traditional Council towards restoring peace.
“We urge the military to be professional in the discharge of their lawful duties, and you have our full cooperation,” the traditional leader stated.
The Ghana Armed Forces also urged residents to desist from acts that incite violence and instead support peace-building efforts.
The Army reiterated that while their mission is to protect lives, they will not hesitate to act decisively against aggressors.
With the conflict showing no clear signs of abating, the military’s warning signals a firm posture aimed at deterring further escalation.
However, authorities hope that with combined efforts from security forces, traditional leadership, and civil society, long-term peace can be achieved in Bawku.
