Kennedy Agyapong Appeals To Bawku Youth To Embrace Peace

Former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has appealed to the youth of Bawku to embrace peace following a surge in violent incidents in the area.

In a statement issued on Sunday, April 13, Mr. Agyapong expressed deep concern over the escalating unrest in Bawku and nearby communities. The unrest recently intensified after the house of Bawku Divisional Police Commander, ACP Adamu Seidu, was set ablaze by suspected assailants on April 9, leading to his death.

Tensions reportedly escalated after a dispute in a local market, where one group allegedly demanded that women from another faction vacate the area. Police efforts to de-escalate the situation were met with gunfire from some youth, resulting in one civilian death and two serious injuries. Several police and immigration officers were also wounded and are currently receiving treatment.

Violence further erupted with an attack on the residence of the Majority Leader, where windows were shattered and parts of the building were damaged. The unrest eventually escalated into an arson attack the following day.

There are also reports that Pusiga MP, Laadi Ayii Ayamba, fled for her safety after her private residence was targeted by gunmen.

In his message, Kennedy Agyapong stated “I have followed with deep concern the recent escalation of tensions in Bawku and surrounding communities. The recurring violent outbreaks and reprisals rooted in longstanding tribal conflicts continue to cause pain and instability among our people.”

He continued: “At this critical moment, I call for calm—especially from the youth. No grievance, however deeply felt, justifies the loss of life or the destruction of our communities. Our peaceful coexistence is the foundation of the prosperity and development we seek, without which we cannot build the Ghana we all desire.”

Agyapong praised efforts towards peace, describing them as signs of statesmanship and national unity, urging Ghanaians to put the nation above partisan divides. “When there is peace in Bawku, there is peace in Ghana. No part of this country can prosper while another is in pain. Ghana must move forward together,” he added.