The Bawku Municipal Chief Executive, Abdulai Abanga, says the protracted conflict in the area is having serious consequences on the municipality and again appealed to the feuding factions to give peace a chance. Mr. Abanga expressed the concern at a press briefing at Bawku. According to him Bawku is now almost desolate following the desertion of the town by a good number of residents and the once booming commercial activities in the area have come to a standstill. He said the Bawku hospital has been closed down and people needing emergency health services go to Zebilla or Bolgatanga hospital.
Mr. Abanga said schools in the municipality have also been closed down, farming activities not started and government revenue through imports from Burkina Faso and Togo also ceased while local revenue from commercial activities have come to a halt. He said the Regional Minister and some security officers have received threats as supporting one of the factions in the conflict. He said they are neutral in their dealings and all they look for is lasting peace. He therefore appealed for their co-operation.
The Bawku divisional Police Commander, Peter Mawong said 23 people have so far lost their lives and 13 culprits apprehended. Meanwhile, 17 suspects arrested in connection with the conflict have been flown to Accra for speedy investigation and trial.
