Ordinarily, half a plot of land with only a dug-out foundation and a few iron rods jutting from the ground would attract little attention.
Yet this very piece of land has become the flashpoint of violent clashes in Gbenyiri, displacing families, shutting down schools, and spreading fear across the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District in the Savannah Region.
Although details remain unclear, residents report that the conflict began when rival factions laid claim to the same plot earmarked for development. Graphic Online understands that a private developer was prevented from proceeding with construction by one of the feuding factions asserting ownership.
What started as a disagreement soon escalated into full-blown clashes, resulting in loss of lives and widespread displacement.
A visit to the site by Graphic Online’s Mohammed Fugu revealed a bare foundation, trenches, and rusting iron rods, indicating that construction had commenced before the dispute erupted.
The conflict, which began on August 24, 2025, has claimed 31 lives, displaced about 48,000 residents, and destroyed numerous homes and properties. Many victims are now living in makeshift camps, while others have sought refuge in neighbouring districts or even across the border in Ivory Coast.
Source: Graphic.com.gh
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