The Overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sherigah II, has called on the Interior Minister to lift the curfew imposed on Walewale and its surrounding areas, stressing that it is causing hardship and escalating tensions.
His appeal follows a visit by a delegation to the Walewale Chief’s Palace to express solidarity with affected residents. Before proceeding to the palace, the delegation visited the Walewale Government Hospital to check on individuals reportedly injured due to military actions.
Delivering the Nayiri’s message at the Mba Duraana’s Palace, delegation leader Mba Taraana emphasized that the curfew was doing more harm than good.
“The Nayiri extends his condolences to families who have lost loved ones and urges residents to remain calm. However, his main appeal is for the curfew to be lifted immediately, as it is causing significant difficulties,” he said.
The delegation also raised concerns about the safety of residents during curfew hours, warning that criminals could exploit the situation.
“There are reports that passengers traveling through Walewale at night are forced to disembark in the middle of town and make their way home on foot. Allegedly, security personnel demand payments from those caught outside during curfew hours, with non-compliance resulting in beatings. This is alarming and unacceptable,” he added.
The call to lift the curfew is part of broader efforts to address tensions in the Mamprugu Kingdom, particularly in Bawku, where chieftaincy disputes have led to loss of lives and property destruction.