The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, confirmed the incident during an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

He revealed that the attack took place on Sunday, June 29, 2025, even as mediation efforts to restore peace were still underway.

In addition, Mr. Gyapong stated that gunshots are still being fired in some communities, accompanied by the destruction of property.

The Minister assured that the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) will visit the affected communities where tensions are still high.

He condemned the violence in no uncertain terms, expressing concern over its impact on lives and livelihoods.

“Electricity has been cut to areas where the clashes have re-emerged. Banks, schools, and other essential services have been shut down,” he said.

However, he assured that security has been strengthened in the area, with a joint military and police patrol in force. He added that technology is being deployed to identify and apprehend the culprits.

He vowed that anyone arrested in connection with the chaos will face the full rigors of the law.

“The situation where we arrest and release people will be a thing of the past. We will deal with them decisively to serve as a deterrent,” he stated.

Commenting on the curfew imposed in the area, Mr. Gyapong noted that it would be extended to other tension-prone communities as a preventive measure.

The clashes re-emerged on Thursday, June 26, 2025, after a group attempted to pour libation as part of preparations for the upcoming Yam Festival. The move was resisted by another faction, reigniting longstanding tensions among ethnic groups in the municipality.

Three students have lost their lives, while several others have sustained various degrees of injuries.

According to the Regional Minister, the violence was unexpected, especially since all tribal groups had previously agreed to suspend public festivals due to the fragile security situation.

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The incident has also caused significant property damage, creating fear and insecurity within the community.

Despite a joint police and military deployment to the town, nearly 200 people have reportedly fled.

In a related development, residents have called for the establishment of a permanent military base to address persistent violence and land disputes that have disrupted lives and destroyed properties in the area.

They believe that a military base would not only enhance security but also promote trust and cooperation among rival factions, paving the way for long-term peace and stability.

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