The imposition of the curfew in Walewale and its surrounding areas has been a subject of intense debate, with stakeholders weighing the security benefits against the economic and social hardships it imposes.
The curfew, introduced in response to escalating security threats, particularly along the Bolga-Walewale Highway, has been met with both support and calls for review.
The Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism, Mr. Muqthar Mumuni, has called for a dialogue to address the Curfew placed on Walewale and its residents. He highlighted the complexities of the situation, emphasizing the need for a strategic and collaborative approach.
Meanwhile, the paramount chief of the Mamprugu Traditional Area has expressed concerns about the socio-economic impact of the curfew on the local population, advocating for its removal. Mr. Muqthar acknowledged this perspective.
“That kind of call is expected from the overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area because he was seeking to ease the pressure and the cost of this curfew on his people. And so, it’s something that is expected.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
However, he cautioned that while the concerns of residents are valid, the security situation must be the primary consideration.
Escalating Security Challenges
The security situation in the area has deteriorated significantly, with the conflict in Bawku extending beyond its traditional boundaries. Mr. Muqthar highlighted the broader implications of the unrest.
“If you go back, I mean, several steps back, you will realize the enormity of the challenge that we’re dealing with. What we’re seeing is a product of what is happening in the Bawku traditional area where the conflict has been very active in the last two and a half years.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
He further warned that the expansion of the conflict is a cause for alarm, affecting key transport routes.
“The Prumaku, Bolga, Tamale Highway is a risky spot. It’s a risky highway. We’ve recorded at least two dozen fatalities just in the last quarter of the year. And so, it’s a very serious situation.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
Mr. Muqthar also noted the risk of violent extremism spilling over northern Ghana, exacerbating an already volatile situation.
Unprecedented Levels of Violence
He emphasized that the recent escalation in violence has introduced new and concerning elements. The conflict has seen attacks involving foreign nationals and a level of brutality previously unseen.
“In the last attack that triggered this curfew, we saw the killings of not just Ghanaians, but also foreigners, including Burkinabe and Togolese involved in this. This is a significant departure from what we have been seeing in the last couple of years.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
Additionally, Mr. Muqthar highlighted that the nature of attacks has changed, indicating a possible shift in tactics by armed groups.
“People burnt beyond recognition, buses burnt in a manner that we haven’t seen before. We are moving into a realm that could prove beyond state control.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
Given the complexities of the security situation, Mr. Muqthar emphasized the need for a comprehensive and inclusive strategy. He advocated for greater collaboration between the state and traditional authorities.
By involving all stakeholders in decision-making, Mr. Muqthar believes there will be greater public support for security measures, reducing resistance and fostering peace. Residents have raised allegations of military excesses, Mr. Muqthar expressed deep concern about these reports.
“It is very worrying that we are having the security officials, on the back of this, engaging in human rights abuses.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
He warned that such actions could backfire, undermining public trust in the security forces.
“All security measures that are put in place in this area must be human rights compliant to ensure that you do not attract negative and destructive backlash from the local population.”
Mr. Muqthar Mumuni Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism
While the economic and social hardships caused by the curfew are undeniable, Mr. Muqthar argues that security must remain the top priority. The situation in Walewale and beyond requires sustained vigilance, strategic planning, and community engagement.
For now, he believes it is too early to lift or ease the curfew, but continued dialogue and assessment of the ground realities will be crucial in shaping future decisions.
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