Dialogue key to resolving Nkwanta conflict – Oti Regional Minister-designate

The Regional Minister-Designate for the Oti Region, John Kwadwo Gyapong, has expressed his commitment to using dialogue, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, to resolve the ongoing conflict in Nkwanta.

The renewed conflict, which erupted in Nkwanta on January 16, resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. Fear has gripped residents as violent clashes continued into Thursday night, with reports of sporadic gunfire by unidentified individuals.

Videos obtained by Citi News captured the sounds of loud gunshots and extensive property damage. Sources suggest the conflict is tribal, involving three indigenous groups: the Challa and the Adele on one side, and the Achodes on the other.

The violence has displaced approximately 200 people, forcing them to flee Nkwanta to nearby towns such as Pampawie, Ahamansu, and other locations within the Kadjebi District. Kadjebi, which borders the Nkwanta Municipality, has become a safe haven for those seeking refuge.

In response to the crisis, John Kwadwo Gyapong underscored the importance of dialogue as the primary tool for resolving the conflict.

Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee, he outlined his plans to engage key stakeholders and set up a committee dedicated to conflict resolution.

“When I am given the nod, I will consult my regional coordinating council, the security coordinating council, and again consult chiefs and stakeholders in Nkwanta first, and we will see how we are going to solve this issue,” he said.

Gyapong emphasized that resolving conflicts is a gradual process that requires consistent engagement. “Conflict is not an event, and a solution to the conflict is also not an event.

“We will dialogue with the stakeholders and the people who matter. We will establish a conflict resolution committee that will be attractive to all the players of the conflict,” he added.