The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, has strongly condemned the renewed attacks and the latest killing linked to the ongoing conflict in the Nkwanta South Municipality.
He described the killing of a 25-year-old food vendor, Richmond Benye Ayitey, which occurred on Saturday, May 3, 2026, as barbaric and unacceptable.
On behalf of the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, he extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family and called on residents to remain calm while security agencies intensify investigations.
The Regional Minister assured the public that security agencies have been directed to act decisively to restore confidence and protect lives and property.
He emphasized that all individuals involved in the attack and killing will be pursued and made to face the full rigour of the law, stressing that impunity will not be tolerated.
John Gyapong noted that the Oti Regional Security Council remains committed to achieving lasting peace in Nkwanta South.
He warned that no group or individual would be allowed to destabilise the area or disrupt the relative peace and security residents have worked to maintain.
He further urged all feuding factions to cease hostilities immediately and use appropriate legal and traditional channels to resolve disagreements.
According to him, dialogue and lawful processes remain the only acceptable means to address disputes and misunderstandings.
The Minister also raised concerns about the reported release of two suspects previously arrested with ammunition and a weapon, describing the development as one that has heightened tension and anxiety in the municipality.
He indicated that such incidents undermine public confidence and complicate efforts to de-escalate the situation.
In addition, the Minister cautioned that authorities may be compelled to review existing security measures if instability persists.
He noted that he would not be surprised if the curfew hours in Nkwanta are reversed from 10:00 p.m. back to 6:00 p.m. should the security situation deteriorate.
The Regional Minister also appealed to residents to cooperate with law enforcement, share credible information, and refrain from actions or rhetoric that could inflame tensions, reiterating that peace remains the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in the municipality.
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