One Dead, Several Injured in Renewed Ethnic Clashes in Nkwanta South – MCE Confirms
Nkwanta South, Oti Region – June 27, 2025:
Tensions have flared once again in Ghana’s Nkwanta South Municipality, resulting in the death of one person and multiple injuries in what local authorities describe as renewed ethnic clashes. The violence erupted in the early hours of Thursday, June 26, despite a prior agreement to suspend all public festivals due to fragile peace in the region.
According to eyewitnesses, gunshots were heard around 2:00 a.m., reportedly triggered by a ritual libation ceremony ahead of the Yam Festival. The ceremony, carried out by one group, was resisted by a rival ethnic faction, leading to a violent confrontation.
Municipal Chief Executive Confirms Fatalities
In a briefing to journalists, Mr. Joseph Antwi, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Nkwanta South, confirmed the outbreak of violence, the casualties, and ongoing efforts to restore order.
“We rushed them to the hospital, but this afternoon around 3 PM, one passed, but the other is receiving treatment,” he stated.
Mr. Antwi further disclosed that two young women were also shot during the incident. While one has been transferred to a hospital for treatment, the other remains missing.
“We do not know her whereabouts as I speak,” he said with concern, assuring that search efforts are ongoing.
Fragile Peace Disrupted by Ritual Dispute
The renewed violence has shocked local leaders and residents, especially after previous interventions led to a temporary halt of festival-related activities in hopes of sustaining the tenuous peace.
However, Thursday’s incident shows the depth of unresolved ethnic tensions in the area, which have historically flared during cultural or religious events, particularly those involving traditional rites.
Security and Community Leaders Working to Restore Calm
Mr. Antwi assured the public that security agencies have been deployed, and community leaders are engaging all factions involved to de-escalate the situation.
“We are working with the security services and local leaders to bring back calm and ensure such violence does not repeat itself,” the MCE added.
What’s Next?
Authorities are expected to issue a formal update on the status of the missing woman, ongoing investigations, and any further casualties. Meanwhile, residents have been urged to remain indoors and cooperate with security forces to prevent further escalation.
As the Nkwanta South municipality reels from the renewed violence, the call for reconciliation and conflict resolution remains more urgent than ever.
