Fresh violence linked to a disputed festival ritual has plunged Nkwanta South in the Oti Region back into instability, forcing authorities to deploy heavy security personnel in a bid to restore calm.
The renewed unrest broke out on Wednesday, June 26, when an attempt by one group to pour libation ahead of the Yam Festival was fiercely resisted by another faction. The confrontation quickly escalated, with gunshots reportedly injuring two individuals, both of whom are now receiving treatment.
Municipal Chief Executive, Joseph Antwi, expressed dismay over the breach of a prior truce, noting that a government directive banning all public festivals had been agreed upon just weeks ago by the area’s three main ethnic groups to avoid such conflicts.
The MCE recounted how the incident took local officials by surprise. “I received calls that a group was performing rites to announce the festival, contrary to the agreement. Security was quickly deployed, but unfortunately, gunshots erupted again later in the evening,” he said.
Following the initial response, the Regional Security Council authorized further reinforcements. Mr. Antwi confirmed that calm has been tentatively restored, though parts of the town remain largely deserted as fearful residents flee potential reprisals.
The situation underscores deep-seated tensions in the area and highlights the volatile intersection of cultural traditions and contested leadership claims, with peace in the municipality hanging in a delicate balance.
