Although Ghana enjoys relative peace and security in a challenging region, the country is also accustomed to occasional outbreaks of clashes caused by Chieftaincy disputes and land ownership claims. What is new about this manageable conflict is either their increasing sophistication and destructive power.
Moreover, the West African subregion is restive and awash with small and light arms. As Ghana goes to poll, many citizens are concerned about the impact these conflicts may have on the election and the safety and security of the nation in general and the North to be precise.
A security analyst, Mr. Adib Saani has called on authorities to be proactive and pay attention to the situation in the North.
“We are not taking sides. We are calling on the government to act, and it would also be a good opportunity for us to acknowledge the … community to also do more to rid their communities of these criminals who are pushing them into disrepute and also cooperate with security services, and not in any way fall for the propaganda of terrorists who might want to take advantage of the situation.”
Mr. Adib Saani
The Northern, matter of Interest
Geography makes the North a matter of interest, due to the spread and consolidation of terrorist groups in the Sahel region, Ghana’s security assessment has become very critical. Further compounding the fear of many is the prevalence of violence in dealing with such disputes even when matters are in court.
Within 48 hours, two violent clashes were reported in the Northern part of Ghana. In Bole, two brothers of the Bolewura were arrested over land dispute and this resulted in violent attacks on a rival faction called the Jahoris. Houses, cars, and a few other valuables belonging to the Jahori tribe were set ablaze.
Meanwhile, the court presiding over the dispute restrained the Bolewura from interfering in the matter.
“Bole Wura is henceforth restrained, pending the final determination of this suit, to enskin or escort anybody to the area of litigation as a Chief”, the court said.
In a similar but unrelated matter, one person lost his life, and properties were also damaged and set ablaze over a Chieftaincy dispute. Over 40 houses, a tipper truck, and a few other valuables were ransacked and destroyed in the ensuing violence.
Adib Saani in highlighting the need for dialogue, urged the government to be up and doing and also be fair to all sides.
“We wouldn’t want any terrorist group to rely on local grievances. You know they are opportunistic to establish ties and perhaps infiltrate. That is why we feel the government must act because we also don’t want a situation whereby a certain group within the country feels marginalized. After all, that would be catastrophic. Marginalization leads to disenchantment, which obviously could lead to frustration and perhaps belligerence.”
Adib Saani
Election Concern
Despite being a major concern for experts over the years, the impending election has broadened the concern. Ordinary citizens are also showing interest in these matters. The fear is that some unscrupulous politicians and other disgruntled political elements could foment violence during this election using the Chieftaincy dispute as an excuse.
Furthermore, if left unchecked, it could hinder voting in some parts of the country. Such an incident would not only daint the image of the elections, it would also result in disenfranchising some sections of the population thus bringing in its wake questions of credibility and legitimacy.
In essence, it will also amount to a test of the competency and preparedness of our security agencies and institutions alike.
Mind you, in 2015, even under the shadows of the Boko Haram insurgency at its peak, Nigeria conducted a very clean and credible election that saw President Jonathan defeated.
Therefore, in terms of records, West Africa has a record of resilience, and Ghana as its beacon of democracy cannot afford to get it wrong regardless of the challenge. Be it security or logistics, the State, Electoral Commission, and Security services must be proactive.
Finally with a higher stake due to the Northern origin of the leading contenders, the Northern part of Ghana must be given premium attention.
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