Members of Parliament representing the six constituencies of Kusaug in the Upper East Region have called on the government and the Ghana Armed Forces to take immediate and concrete action following what they describe as ‘unprovoked military brutality’ in Bawku on July 13, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference in Parliament, the MPs, led by Hon. Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, MP for Tempane, outlined a six-point demand that includes a formal apology from the Ghana Armed Forces, prosecution of soldiers involved in the attack, an overhaul of security operations in the area, and full compensation to victims.
“We demand that the Ghana Armed Forces render an unqualified apology to the Zugraan and the people of Kusaug for the unprofessional and banditry acts committed by the military in Bawku,” said Hon. Akavarimba.
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The MPs listed the following specific demands: A formal apology from the Ghana Armed Forces to the Zugraan and Kusaug people; Prosecution of the soldiers involved in the alleged killings, destruction, and looting; A complete overhaul of all military and security personnel currently stationed in Bawku; Deployment of impartial and professionally screened personnel in future operations; Adoption of intelligence-led security strategies, instead of excessive force; and Rebuilding of the destroyed statue of Zugraan Azoka II and payment of compensation to victims’ families and owners of destroyed properties.
“What security threat did the statue pose? That act was not just unnecessary—it was an insult to the Kusasi people,” the MPs said in the statement.
The MPs’ outrage follows reports that soldiers, acting in response to an earlier reported attack on a military-escorted vehicle, allegedly opened fire on civilians, killed six people, injured over 20, and looted shops.
The MPs expressed regret on the unfortunate attack on the vehicle but condemned in the strongest terms the military’s excessive and unlawful response. “There have been too many of such incidents. Innocent lives are lost each time, and no one is held accountable,” she said.
While expressing deep anger, the MPs urged residents of Kusaug, especially the youth, to exercise restraint and avoid retaliatory actions.
“We understand your pain. We share in your frustration. But we urge calm and patience as we engage all relevant authorities on your behalf. Let us channel our anger into constructive engagement, not destruction,” Hon. Akavarimba said.
The MPs also appealed to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, to expedite his ongoing efforts at mediating the protracted conflict in Bawku.
“We believe that his wisdom and moral authority can calm tempers and help restore peace to our land,” the statement added.
Tensions in Bawku have simmered for years over chieftaincy disagreements, which the Kusaug MPs argue were reignited by what they call the Nayiri’s ‘illegal enskinment of a rival chief.’ They reaffirmed their support for Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, whom they say has been the legitimate chief of Bawku since 1984.