Shock and grief have swept through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the Bongo District following the brutal murder of Mr. Mohammed Seidu Akugri, the district manager of the NHIA Office in the Upper East Region.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, 19th May 2025, has sparked strong condemnation from the NHIA and public figures, with calls for swift justice and renewed efforts to protect peace in the region.
“Mr. Akugri was a dedicated, hardworking, and highly respected member of the NHIA family who served with distinction, commitment, and integrity.
“His untimely and tragic death is a devastating loss not only to his family and colleagues but also to the entire NHIA and the people of Bongo whom he diligently served”
NHIA Executive Management
The NHIA’s Executive Management expressed profound sorrow over the killing of Mr. Akugri, describing it as a grievous blow to the Authority and the Bongo community. The late manager was held in high esteem for his dedication, integrity, and service to the people.
The Authority noted that “the perpetrators must be swiftly brought to justice” and assured the public that no effort would be spared in helping law enforcement uncover the truth.
A Heinous Act in Nangodi
Beyond the NHIA statement regarding Mr. Akugri’s death, further details emerged through a separate statement by Hon. Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central. He revealed that the manager was shot and killed in Nangodi, near Bolgatanga, and that his body was later set on fire.
“I hereby condemn, in no uncertain terms, the shooting, killing and burning of the body of Mohammed Seidu Akugri, who was the Bongo district director of National Health Insurance Authority”
Hon. Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central
He expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, describing Mr. Akugri as a comrade and public servant whose life was brutally cut short. Hon. Ayariga’s statement underscored the urgent need for accountability and law enforcement action.
Hon. Ayariga called for thorough investigations and immediate arrests. “I urge law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate and apprehend the perpetrators of this dastardly act.”
Ayariga’s remarks stressed the need for justice without delay, indicating growing public pressure on the Ghana Police Service and other security institutions.
The NHIA echoed this demand, reiterating that such acts cannot go unpunished if public confidence in institutions is to be preserved. The murder has raised fresh concerns about the safety of public officers working in conflict-affected or high-risk regions.
Maintaining Calm
While calling for justice, Hon. Ayariga also appealed to residents and the youth in the region to maintain peace. He linked the incident indirectly to ongoing tensions in the Bawku area and cautioned against any retaliatory actions that could disrupt peace efforts.
“I urge all to remain calm and let’s focus on the on-going efforts of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to bring a lasting solution to the Bawku situation”
Hon. Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central
He commended the youth for their restraint so far, particularly in the wake of provocative events, and urged them to continue supporting mediation efforts.
In his remarks, Hon. Ayariga acknowledged progress in peacebuilding and warned that “no one should be allowed to derail the process.” His message was a clear attempt to steer public reaction away from anger and toward the long-term goal of resolving conflict in the region.
Mr. Akugri’s death marks a dark chapter in the ongoing security challenges faced by public servants in Ghana’s northern regions.
As investigations into his death continue, the NHIA and political leaders stand united in their call for justice and calm. The grief of the moment is tempered only by the hope that swift and decisive action will lead to accountability – and ultimately, peace.
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