Over 20 Homes Burned in Gumyoko as Bawku Chieftaincy Tensions Spill Over

Gumyoko Houses Set Ablaze

A wave of destruction has hit the Gumyoko community in the Binduri District of Ghana’s Upper East Region, as violence linked to the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy conflict spreads beyond its usual boundaries. On the night of the latest attack, at least 12 homes were set ablaze by unidentified individuals, deepening fears and uncertainty among residents of the area.

Security sources have confirmed that this wasn’t an isolated event. Just three days prior, similar arson attacks took place, with multiple structures destroyed. In total, more than 20 houses have now been reduced to ashes in a matter of days.

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Authorities suspect that this violence is a direct spillover from the long-standing chieftaincy dispute in the nearby town of Bawku—a conflict that has simmered for years, periodically erupting into clashes and acts of destruction. Though Gumyoko is not at the center of the dispute, its proximity to Bawku has left it vulnerable.

Residents of Gumyoko, fearing for their lives, began abandoning the area nearly a month ago. The community, once lively with families and farmers going about their daily lives, now stands largely empty. This abandonment, according to local sources, gave attackers a free hand to carry out their acts of destruction without resistance or witnesses.

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Many of the torched houses belonged to families who had fled with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Their belongings, cherished memories, and homes have now been reduced to rubble and ashes. For those displaced, the path to recovery will be long and difficult, especially in a region already grappling with poverty and instability.

So far, no arrests have been made in connection with the attacks, and investigations are ongoing. The lack of accountability has left community members feeling exposed and helpless, as fears grow that more attacks could follow if nothing is done.

Community leaders and residents are urging the government and security forces to take urgent steps to restore peace and ensure the safety of vulnerable areas. Many are also calling for a long-term resolution to the Bawku chieftaincy crisis, which continues to cast a long shadow over the region.

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