By: Kekeli K. Blamey
Residents of Nkwanta South Municipality in the Oti Region have welcomed the adjustment of the existing curfew hours, now set from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM starting Tuesday. Previously, since November 21, 2023, the curfew had been enforced from 5:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
This change follows incidents of sporadic gunfire due to tribal conflicts in Nkwanta, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and the temporary closure of businesses.
Mr. Jonas Agbeko, a local trader, expressed his relief, noting that the extended curfew hours would allow businesses to operate more efficiently. A food vendor echoed this sentiment, mentioning that her food would no longer go to waste due to the shortened curfew period.
Despite the positive reception, residents have urged the government to further extend or completely lift the curfew, as normalcy has largely returned to the area.
The Minister of the Interior, Mr. Henry Quartey, cautioned residents against carrying arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons in Nkwanta. He explained that the curfew adjustment was made following recommendations from the Oti Regional Security Council and implemented through an Executive Instrument. The government also appealed to the public to remain calm and utilize established mechanisms for resolving conflicts and disputes.
