Mahama directs Interior Minister to engage Yagbonwura, reinforces security in Sawla-Bole

President John Dramani Mahama has directed urgent steps to restore calm in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District after violent clashes between Gonja and Brifor groups at Gbiniyiri, which have left six people dead and 18 others injured, forcing hundreds of residents to flee their homes.

A statement issued on August 30, 2025, and signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, said the President had spoken by telephone with the Yagbonwura, Jira Bikunuto Jewu Soale I, on measures to end the disturbances.

The statement added that the Minister for the Interior, Mr Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, had been directed to lead a government delegation to the area to work with traditional leaders and other stakeholders to encourage dialogue and restore calm.

The clashes, which broke out on August 24, were linked to a dispute over land at Gbiniyiri. Graphic Online reported that five people were killed and six injured on the first day of the violence. The death toll has since risen to six, with 18 confirmed injuries.

The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces have reinforced security in Sawla, Gbiniyiri, Giniri and surrounding communities. 

The Savannah Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has also taken steps to support victims. Displaced residents are being relocated to safer areas, while the Ghana Red Cross has distributed tents and other emergency relief items.

Communities along the Sawla-Bole highway have largely been deserted as families flee to safety, with women and children forming the majority of those displaced.

President Mahama urged all parties to cooperate with the government’s initiatives aimed at ending the conflict and restoring normalcy.

He further directed the delegation to work closely with the Savannah Regional Security Council, traditional authorities and community leaders to resolve disputes peacefully and maintain law and order.