Two Killed, Several Injured in Violent Clash Over Land Dispute in Abunyanya

Deadly Clash Erupts in Abunyanya

A violent clash in Abunyanya, a farming community in the Nkwanta North District of the Oti Region, has left two people dead and several others injured.

The incident occurred on Sunday, February 1, following tensions linked to a long-standing land and chieftaincy dispute between residents of the area.

Cause of the Conflict

The Assembly Member for the Abunyanya Electoral Area and Presiding Member of the Nkwanta North District Assembly, Mr Alhassan Abubakar, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the violence began when a man from Abunyanya No.1 started developing a disputed piece of land.

Residents from Abunyanya No.2 reportedly attempted to stop the development, which quickly escalated into a confrontation.

Gunfire and Property Destruction

According to Mr Abubakar, the District Security Committee (DISEC) initially intervened and summoned community leaders to help de-escalate the situation.

However, the individual involved allegedly ignored advice and continued with the construction, leading to further tension.

“Gunshots were fired, resulting in deaths and injuries, and several properties were destroyed,” Mr Abubakar said.

Houses, shops, and motorbikes were damaged or burnt during the clash.

Security Intervention

Military personnel were later deployed to restore calm in the area.

The Oti Regional Minister, Mr John Kwadwo Gyapong, has since ordered the deployment of additional security forces to Abunyanya and surrounding communities to prevent further violence.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while efforts are being made to stabilise the area and protect lives and property.

Renewed Concerns Over Land and Chieftaincy Disputes

The incident has once again highlighted the deadly consequences of unresolved land and chieftaincy disputes in parts of Ghana, particularly in rural communities where tensions can quickly turn violent.

Residents have been urged to remain calm as security agencies work to maintain peace.