Today, on Monday, April 28, 2025, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will continue his mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing Bawku conflict between the two opposing factions.

According to a press release dated April 15, 2025, the Asantehene has officially declared that mediation talks will be held at his palace in Kumasi from April 28 to May 1 in order to address the Bawku conflicts.

President John Mahama has assured that the Asantehene will lead the ongoing peace process as part of broader national efforts to restore calm in the troubled region.

Many Ghanaians, particularly the vulnerable residents of Bawku and its neighboring areas, are placing their hopes on the Asantehene’s mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. Women and children, who this turmoil has significantly impacted, are especially hopeful that a lasting solution will be achieved through this process.

On this day, the 28th of April, Minister John Abdulai Jinapor of Energy and Green Transition rejected claims spreading on social media about his supposed statement labeling 70% of Tamale residents as electricity thieves.

Mr Jinapor has released a press statement this morning, denouncing the reports as “entirely false, contrived and baseless,” He has appealed to the public to pay no attention to these allegations.

He underscored that the audio-visual recordings would prove that he never called the people of Tamale power thieves during his visit.

Mr Jinapor further elaborated on his remarks, stating that he had raised apprehension over the significant ATC&C losses in the NEDCo operational area.

The losses were pointed out as the highest in the area, and they have played a significant role in causing frequent power outages.

“For the avoidance of doubt, technical and collection losses have nothing to do with power theft but rather signify the inefficiencies of the utility company,” he stated.

The Minister emphasized the necessity for immediate changes in the power sector in Tamale, stressing the importance of both substantial investments and operational efficiency to address the current difficulties.

According to him, it is imperative to make enhancements in revenue collection and technical operations in order to ensure a dependable, steady and uninterrupted electricity supply for the residents of Tamale.

Mr Jinapor’s proposed actions demonstrate a larger mission to improve energy distribution throughout the Northern regions.

As he wrapped up his statement, Mr Jinapor reiterated his profound admiration and dedication to the people of Tamale, referring to them as his fellow community members.

“Let me finally assure the chiefs, elders and people of Tamale of my utmost respect and reverence to them and will never use derogatory words to describe my kinsmen,” he said.

His forceful response seems to prioritize maintaining the trust of the community while tackling the technical obstacles in the local energy distribution system.

Doctors at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) have ended their strike and resumed complete services after intervention by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya Naa Abukari II, and discussions with Health Minister Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.

The doctors had withdrawn their services on April 23, 2025, following an incident during the health minister’s visit to the hospital the previous day. The strike was triggered when members of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) raised concerns about persistent operational issues and other challenges hindering effective healthcare delivery.

The suspension of services disrupted both routine and emergency operations at the hospital. In response, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health and a delegation from Ya Naa Abukari II engaged with the hospital’s leadership to mediate a resolution.

Following consultations with the National Executive Council of the GMA, emergency services were partially restored at TTH from 2 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025. On the same day, a meeting between the health minister and the doctors was facilitated by the GMA.

During the meeting, Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh expressed regret over the ongoing challenges at the hospital and the events leading to the strike. He reassured the doctors that measures had been implemented to address their concerns, including providing necessary medical equipment and supplies.

After these discussions, the doctors convened an emergency meeting on April 26, 2025, where they voted to call off the strike. In a statement, the GMA directed all doctors to resume complete duties immediately.

The GMA also pledged to continue engaging with the hospital’s management, the Ministry of Health, and other stakeholders to address the longstanding healthcare delivery issues. The association urged the hospital leadership to be more transparent about the institution’s challenges and appealed to the media to report responsibly on health matters.

While expressing appreciation for Ya Naa Abukari II’s role in resolving the matter, the GMA warned that they may consider further actions if logistical and equipment challenges persist. The association reiterated its commitment to improving healthcare at Tamale Teaching Hospital.

The government has revised the curfew hours in Bawku Municipality and surrounding areas in the Upper East Region. Starting Friday, April 25, 2025, the new curfew will be from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.

This decision was made by the Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, following recommendations from the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and formalized through an Executive Instrument.

The curfew was initially imposed in February 2025 after a surge in violence related to a long-standing chieftaincy conflict between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities. The unrest led to fatalities, injuries, and heightened insecurity, prompting swift action from security forces to restore order.

The government has called on chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, the youth, and residents to act with restraint and resolve disputes peacefully.

Despite the revised curfew, the ban on the possession of weapons, ammunition, and other offensive items remains in effect. The Ministry has warned that anyone caught with such items will face arrest and prosecution.

Mr. Muntaka-Mubarak reassured the public that the government would continue collaborating with traditional authorities and residents to maintain peace and stability in the municipality.

Bunbon R/C Junior High School students in the Yendi Municipality of the Northern Region are experiencing significant obstacles in their ICT education because they lack computers and a designated ICT lab.

There are serious concerns about their readiness for a digital future due to the current situation.

Although the school has a large enrolment of 278 students and 13 teaching staff, not a single computer is available to aid in teaching and learning ICT.

Consequently, students are placed at a significant disadvantage compared to their counterparts in more well-equipped schools nationwide, as lessons solely consist of theoretical instruction.

According to Mr Yahaya Aminu, the Headmaster of Bunbon R/C JHS, the dearth of practical experience is diminishing the value of ICT instruction and detrimentally impacting students’ BECE results.

“Our students struggle to understand key ICT concepts, which makes it difficult for them to excel in exams and competitions,” he stated. “As a nation committed to digital learning and inclusive development, it is disheartening to see our children left behind simply because of a lack of basic resources.”

Apart from ICT, the school faces other obstacles. According to Alhassan Abu Safianu, the Assemblyman for the area, a significant lack of furniture is hindering the learning process.

According to him, students being stuffed into cramped classrooms, where three people have to squeeze onto one bench or take turns using chairs, disrupts lessons and creates an unfavourable learning atmosphere.

The Assemblyman also raised the alarm about the declining condition of the school building, noting its weakness and lack of safety. He pointed out that the structure is inadequate and outdated despite a student population of over 278. According to him, there are reports of classrooms housing up to 72 pupils, which far exceeds the maximum class size recommended by the Ghana Education Service of 45.

Mr Safianu appealed to the Yendi Municipal Assembly, non-governmental organisations, and philanthropic individuals to provide assistance to the school. He expressed his belief that with proper support, these children can be equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital world and enhance their academic achievements.

N-Yiigma Mulignan Carlos, the School Prefect, also spoke passionately, stating that Ghanaian children deserve a fair opportunity. He expressed their belief that having access to computers and suitable furniture would significantly improve their performance.

In its pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on Goal 4, which aims to provide equal and quality education, Ghana faces a pressing issue highlighted by Bunbon R/C JHS. This calls for swift intervention to narrow the gap between access to technology and education.

Abdulai Abanga, the former MP of Binduri in the Upper East Region, has issued a sincere plea for peace amidst the recent surge of violence and disorder in the Kusaug area, which has tragically resulted in the loss of innocent lives, particularly women and children.

In response to the tragic event that occurred in Binguri, located in the Binduri District, Mr Abanga expressed his strong condemnation for the “senseless murder” of innocent civilians. He called upon all parties involved to prioritise peace and humanity.

“I urge everyone to exercise calm and restraint,” he said. “I extend my deepest sympathies to the families affected by this horrific event,” he said.

Expressing concern over the potential danger of the situation, he urged all parties to avoid using provocative language, put down their weapons, and assist in efforts towards promoting peace. He emphasised the importance of preventing the violence from spreading to nearby communities.

He stressed the importance of a well-rounded approach by the authorities, urging the government to reconsider the curfew and motorcycle ban enforced in Binduri. He pointed out that although these measures aim to uphold order, they impede residents from participating in economic activities and fulfilling their basic needs.

He acknowledged that while the restrictions were necessary, they have also caused untold hardships and further vulnerability among already-struggled communities.

While commending the security agencies for their efforts in stabilising the region, the former MP called for increased measures to prevent further violence and restore peace. He emphasised the importance of proactive and people-centred approaches in building trust and sustaining long-term stability.

Mr Abanga also urged united backing of the Otumfuo-led mediation process, a top-level initiative seeking to tackle the conflict’s underlying issues and promote reconciliation.

He urged all those involved to fully support Otumfuo’s efforts. “It is only through genuine dialogue and unity that we can build sustainable peace.”

About Abdulai Abanga: A Story of Dedication, Service, and Progress

Abdulai Abanga is a Ghanaian politician known for his dedication to the development of his people and his service to the nation. He represented the Binduri constituency in the Upper East Region as a Member of Parliament (MP) from January 7, 2021, to December 2024, under the banner of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Early Life and Education

Abanga was born on May 25, 1970, in Akwatia, Eastern Region, and hails from Binduri in the Upper East Region. His journey to politics was shaped by his commitment to education and his desire to contribute to the betterment of his community. He attended several schools during his formative years, including:

• Akwatia L/A Primary School
• Bansi Primary School in Binduri
• Ghana Secondary School (Ghanasco) in Tamale
• Tamale Polytechnic (now Tamale Technical University), where he earned a Diploma in Business Studies (Accounting)
• University of Cape Coast, where he pursued a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
• Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana, earning his Chartered Accountant Certificate.
• University of Ghana, where he completed a Master’s in development finance.

Professional Career

Before entering the political arena, Abanga had a distinguished professional career. He worked as a Finance Officer at the National Governance Programme and later as a Management Accountant at the Millennium Challenge Account of Ghana. His experience in public finance, governance, and management laid the foundation for his political career.

Abanga’s professional journey also saw him serve as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Bawku and later as Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, gaining valuable experience in governance and public service.

A Political Career Focused on Development

In the 2020 general elections, Abanga secured the Binduri parliamentary seat, defeating the incumbent Robert Baba Kuganab-Lem of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) by 454 votes. His victory marked the beginning of a tenure focused on improving the people’s lives of Binduri.

Abanga was appointed to the Government Assurance Committee and became known for his efforts to address the pressing needs of his constituents. During his time in parliament, he worked tirelessly to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education in the Binduri area. Some of his notable achievements include:

• Construction of Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds in Kpalugu, Sakpare, Atuba, and Gumyoko will ensure better healthcare access for rural communities.
• Building of 6-unit classroom blocks in several communities to enhance educational facilities.
• Drilling 144 hand-pump boreholes, four electrically mechanised boreholes, and six solar-powered boreholes provides clean and accessible water to thousands of residents.
• Provision of scholarships for local and foreign studies, empowering the youth with education opportunities.
• Development of sports facilities, including constructing an astroturf pitch and organising football tournaments, promoting physical activity and community engagement.

These efforts were widely recognised by the Upper East Regional Youth Wing of the NPP, who advocated for his re-election in the 2024 elections.

Setback in 2024 Elections

In the 2024 general elections, Abanga was unseated by Mahmoud Issifu of the NDC, who won the seat with 21,943 votes compared to Abanga’s 7,811. Despite this loss, Abanga’s legacy as an advocate for development in Binduri remains strong. His contribution to the community resonates with his constituents, many of whom appreciate the tangible improvements he made during his tenure as MP.

A Continued Commitment to Peace and Development

Even after his departure from parliament, Abdulai Abanga remains influential in his community. In April 2025, amid rising tensions in the Kusaug area, Abanga called for calm and restraint, condemning the recent violence and advocating for peacebuilding efforts. His commitment to peace and progress remains steadfast, and he continues to work toward creating a better future for the people of Binduri.

Abdulai Abanga’s story is one of dedication to service, a relentless pursuit of development, and a commitment to the welfare of his people. He remains a figure of hope and inspiration for many, and his contributions to Binduri will not soon be forgotten.

In Nalerigu, North East Region, a district court has ordered the remand of Waliu Fazazi, a suspect in a mobile money robbery case. Fazazi will be held in police custody to aid in the ongoing investigations. The court arraigned him on Friday, April 25, 2025, for his involvement in a robbery at Bunkpurugu on April 23, 2025.

Per police reports, Waliu Fazazi, along with accomplices who remain at large, assaulted a mobile money vendor and absconded with GH₵1,300,000.00.

Based on initial investigations, it was discovered that the accused approached the vendor pretending to withdraw GH₵15,000.00. He claimed that his brother had sent the money. However, there was a delay due to network problems.

During the transaction, two masked individuals, one carrying a weapon, suddenly emerged and demanded the vendor’s money-filled bag. According to witnesses, the perpetrators fired shots as a warning before making their escape on a motorcycle.

After appearing in court, Waliu Fazazi was detained and is scheduled to return on May 9, 2025, while investigations are ongoing. The police have also asked the public for any helpful information that may aid in the capture of the other suspects who are still at large.

According to Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, the Chief of the Army Staff for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), members of both the GAF and other security agencies are resolutely dedicated to reestablishing tranquillity and safety in Bawku, located in the Upper East Region.

He emphasised that the GAF and other agencies have been working towards resolving the crisis in Bawku, which has been ongoing between two opposing sides. This effort will continue to establish lasting peace for the people’s benefit.

While on an official visit to Bawku last Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Major General Gbetanu interacted with the media and discussed his interactions with chiefs and military personnel deployed to maintain law and order.

During his initial journey outside Accra since his appointment, the excursion allowed him to visit Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Overlord of Kusaug, and his elders. It also provided a chance to evaluate the current security and operational state on-site.

During the visit, Major General Gbetanu, along with Brigadier General Frank Nartey Tei, General Officer Commanding Northern Command, and Lieutenant Colonel Kakra Sasu-Antwi, Commander Rear of the 11 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, stopped by an outpost in Kpalore. This particular outpost was where a military officer had tragically lost their life recently.

In light of recent events, he shared concern regarding the increasing severity of the ongoing conflict. This has resulted in numerous deaths, including those of security forces attempting to quell the violence. In his words, “The GAF condemns all the killings and the cowardly acts in no uncertain terms”.

He explained that the personnel were diligently enforcing the curfew, conducting patrols, safeguarding key facilities, and deterring any further clashes to address the ongoing hostilities and prevent further violence.

While acknowledging that violence is not the solution, he urged all parties involved in the conflict to put down their weapons and adopt peaceful methods of resolving their disputes for all benefit.

Major-General Gbetanu reassured that the GAF remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and properties and will continue working towards establishing a peaceful and secure environment.

The Army Chief warned those causing unrest in Bawku, stating that their actions would not be tolerated. Any violent acts against civilians or soldiers would be regarded as acts of terrorism and dealt with accordingly.

He emphasised that such actions would not be tolerated and the military would respond with full force and determination. He made it clear that there would be no refuge for those who resort to violence.

“I have directed the personnel to undertake deliberate and targeted searches to retrieve weapons in the possession of the people”.

The speaker urged Naba Azoka II to encourage the community, particularly the young adults, to calmly collaborate with security forces to restore Bawku’s former prestige.

Through the Pusiga Naba, Naba Tambiisi-baaluk-Kunwiak Ibrahim Aguuri I, Naba Azoka II expressed appreciation for Major General Gbetanu’s visit to engage with essential figures in the pursuit of peace in Bawku and its surrounding areas.

He expressed worry over the methods security personnel use when accompanying residents who are leaving town. He requested that this practice be conducted in a way that does not hinder other drivers from using the road.

The speaker expressed sorrow over the fact that certain individuals are harmed and even lose their lives during escort activities in the town. They also commended the security personnel for their role in promoting tranquillity and resolving conflicts in Bawku.

Major General Gbetanu responded by assuring him that the escort operation would be carefully reviewed and carried out in a manner that prioritised the safety of the people involved.