Kusaug People’s Congress condemns military brutality and statue desecration in Bawku
The Kusaug People’s Congress (KPC) has strongly condemned what it describes as acts of military brutality and cultural desecration in Bawku, following a recent attack on a military escort in the conflict-ridden area.
In a statement issued on July 14, 2025, the group comprised of members of the Kusaug tribe expressed grave concern over the military’s alleged retaliatory actions after the said attack, claiming that innocent civilians suffered gross human rights violations. It further described the desecration of the statue of the Zugraan, the Overlord of the Kusaug Kingdom, as an unacceptable affront to the people’s heritage and dignity.
“While we resoundingly condemn the actions of those who attacked the escort, we strongly believe the unmeasured and unprofessional response of the military is not only unjustifiable but represents a gross violation of human rights,” the statement read.
Signed by the President of the Congress, Rev. John Azumah, the release insisted that the response by the Ghana Armed Forces was excessive and indiscriminate, adding that it went against the ethical and constitutional obligations of the military to protect all citizens without prejudice.
“The statue of the Zugraan is more than a symbol — it embodies the unity, history, and identity of the Kusaug Kingdom. To defile it is to insult the very soul of our people,” the group stated, expressing outrage at what it called a deliberate attempt to provoke and dishonour the customs of the Kusaug people.
The KPC has called for an independent investigation into the conduct of the military in the area and demanded a formal apology from both the Ghana Armed Forces and the Government of Ghana for the physical and cultural harm caused. It also urged authorities to restore and protect all cultural and historical symbols of the Kusaug Kingdom.
In addition, the KPC is calling for a review of the military's operations in Bawku, arguing that the current security arrangement breeds more resentment and fear than peace. It proposed renewed engagement between the government and traditional authorities in the region as a critical step toward addressing the root causes of the longstanding conflict.
The statement also urged the government to ensure the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for recent attacks on vehicles along the Bawku-Tilli-Bolgatanga-Walewale-Tamale road, and to strengthen security measures to guarantee the safety of commuters.
The group concluded its statement by calling on civil society, human rights defenders, peacebuilding organisations, and the international community to join their call for justice and solidarity.
“Enough is enough. The people of Kusaug deserve to live in dignity, peace, and respect,” the statement said.
