Ghana: Increased security measures continue in Northern Region /update 1

Event

On Sunday, January 20, Ghana’s Interior Ministry renewed the curfew for Yendi, Tamale, and the surrounding area in Northern Region. According to government officials, a nightly curfew from 18:00 until 06:00 (local time) is in effect following advice from the Northern Region Security Council. Tensions remain high between rival factions of Dagbon community as the funerals end for two chieftains. Localized outbreaks of violence and civil unrest are possible in the near term.

Context

Heightened security measures were implemented in Yendi and Tamale in late December during the traditional funeral rites for Yaa Naa Mahamaudu Abudulai and Yaa Naa Yakubu Andani II. Violent conflicts between the Abudu and Andani factions in the traditional Kingdom of Dagbon have occurred since 2002, following the murder of the King Yakubu Andani II by supporters of the Abudu family. Both factions have attempted to have members of their royal family be named Yaa Naa (monarch) of the Dagbon Kingdom. Peace talks have been ongoing between the two rival factions for the past 12 years.

Advice

Individuals in Ghana, particularly in Northern Region, are advised to monitor the situation, obey all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments, and avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public.