Accra, Ghana – July 30, 2025 – President John Dramani Mahama has strongly condemned the shooting deaths of three senior high school students in Bawku and Nalerigu, directing the Ghana Armed Forces to transition from peacekeeping to peace enforcement to protect lives and restore stability.
Student Killings Spark Presidential Directive
In recent incidents linked to the Bawku chieftaincy conflict, three students—one from Bawku SHS and two from Nalerigu SHS—were shot dead in separate campus attacks by unknown gunmen.Outraged by the tragedy, President Mahama called on Ghanaians to reject violence and reiterated the state’s commitment to protecting educational spaces.
Peace Enforcement: Army Deployed to Protect Lives
Responding to the escalating violence, the government has deployed additional military personnel and imposed curfews in Bawku and its environs. The Ghana Armed Forces have shifted from peacekeeping to robust “peace enforcement” to secure the region and safeguard vulnerable groups—particularly students. Traditional leaders, including Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Nayiri, and Zugraana, were praised for previous mediation efforts. However, the president cautioned that renewed killings necessitate stronger enforcement measures.
Safety Concerns Prompt School Evacuations
As part of the security intervention, the government has begun emergency evacuation of students from high-risk institutions in Bawku, Nalerigu, and surrounding areas. This follows confirmed attacks inside school compounds. A curfew from 2 p.m. to 6 a.m. has been imposed in affected regions to facilitate the safe relocation of students.
The Member of Parliament for Nalerigu/Gambaga has called for a swift and impartial investigation into the deaths of two students at Nalerigu SHS, urging accountability and justice.
Broader Impacts and Rising Tensions
The crackdown aims to quell growing unrest linked to the protracted Bawku chieftaincy dispute, which has resulted in significant displacement and destruction across Upper East and North East regions. Several communities, including the residence of the Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga, have been attacked, raising alarms among residents and public officials. The government’s intervention signals a serious pivot toward national-level conflict containment
Source: My News Ghana
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