Lawyer and Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, warns that Ghana is “playing with fire” in managing the ongoing chieftaincy dispute in Bawku, which has claimed 19 lives.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile on November 2, Bentil expressed concern that the Bawku conflict could spill over into other regions, given existing alliances between factions involved in the dispute.
He referenced past ethnic clashes, such as those in Agbogbloshie, as examples of how these tensions could escalate.
“It is sad and unfortunate—we are playing with fire. I am aware that during times of conflict in Agbogbloshie, we witnessed factions forming across parts of Accra. God forbid, but if violence erupts, you’ll be surprised how quickly it could spread. We’re also hearing reports of guns being supplied from Accra, so there’s much happening beneath the surface,” he cautioned.
Bentil proposed that the government enforce strict regulations on chieftaincy institutions within conflict zones, even suggesting the suspension of chieftaincy roles until disputes are resolved. While he acknowledged the cultural importance of chiefs, he emphasized that public safety must take precedence, noting that chiefs, while respected, are not indispensable to the functioning of the state.
He urged the government to assert its authority in Bawku by deploying the army to manage the conflict, suggesting that a state of emergency might be necessary to prevent further loss of life.
“If a state of emergency will prevent the deaths of 19 people, then implement it. This is the purpose of the state. You can’t convince me that the Ghana Army is not capable of securing Bawku—this is why we have an army, so it should enforce order,” Bentil argued.
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