A fresh wave of violence has swept through the Nkwanta area in Ghana’s Oti Region, reigniting long-standing ethnic tensions between the Adele, Challah, and Akyode communities. The clashes, which began earlier this week, escalated by Thursday morning, resulting in community unrest.
According to reports, the conflict stems from a traditional festival celebration that turned deadly, claiming one life and reducing several houses to ashes. This incident has rekindled historical ethnic disputes that have plagued Nkwanta South, including a series of clashes in late 2023 that resulted in loss of life and property.
In response to the previous violence, the government had imposed curfews and banned arms within the township. However, despite these measures and the recent deployment of troops, the situation remains volatile. Reports indicate additional deaths and widespread property damage.
As the conflict escalates, many residents are fleeing to nearby towns, including Hohoe, in search of safety. The government’s intervention has yet to restore calm, and concerns about the protracted ethnic conflict and its impact on the region’s stability continue to grow.
