Bawku on the Brink: NPP PC suspends campaign amid rising tensions

Dr. John Kingsley Krugu, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for the Zebilla constituency, and Acting Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has suspended his campaign and all party-related activities in response to escalating tensions in the Bawku Traditional Area (KTA).

The crisis intensified with the return of Alhaji Seidu Abagre to Bawku, who was enskinned as a rival Bawku Naba by the Nayiri in February 2023.

This enskinment, swiftly condemned by the government, was deemed illegal and a threat to national security.

The government officially recognises Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II as the legitimate Bawku Naba and has directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone attempting to assume this title unlawfully.

While a High Court in Bolgatanga issued an arrest warrant for Abagre, the Appeals Court in Tamale later overturned this decision.

Although the Attorney General initially filed an appeal, it was subsequently withdrawn.

In a press statement on October 25, 2024, Krugu said he sees Abagre's return as a "provocation that could have severe consequences for the peace of Bawku and the KTA."

Emphasising the determination of the Kusaug people to defend their dignity and cultural heritage, he has called on the government to: Issue a statement directing security agencies to arrest and prosecute Abagre if he claims the title of Bawku Naba.

He has called for the enforcement of the laws of Ghana and to protect the rights of the Kusaug people.

He warned that he would take additional measures to protect lives and property in the KTA if the government does not respond promptly.

"Should the government fail to act on time, I will take further appropriate steps to protect life and property in the KTA.

"The right to self-determination would not be varied under any circumstances, and the people of Kusaug are determined to ensure their dignity and cultural heritage are always protected," the statement added.

Meanwhile, he has asked the people of Kusaug to remain calm despite these provocations.

AM/AE

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