The Member of Parliament for Garu, Dr. Thomas Anaba, has called for the immediate withdrawal of the military stationed in Bawku and surrounding areas, citing what he describes as repeated acts of brutality against civilians.

Speaking to Citi News on Monday, July 14, he condemned the alleged use of excessive force by the military, including the reported demolition of a statue of the Zugran of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II.

He described the incident as deeply disrespectful and a trigger for renewed unrest in the area.

“I would request that the military officers in Bawku, all of them, be moved away immediately. The military high command and the Ministry of Defence must ensure the statue is rebuilt and an official apology rendered to the overlord of Bawku. Otherwise, there will be serious chaos. The youth are very angry,” he warned.

He emphasised the military’s core duty to protect citizens, not to intimidate or harm them. “You’re supposed to protect the citizenry not go after them. If one individual misbehaves, the proper thing is to identify and deal with them using military intelligence. You have the means. Why act with such force against the whole community”

Dr. Anaba also criticised the military’s longstanding conduct in the conflict-prone town, accusing them of bias and power abuse.

“The actions of the military in Bawku are unjustified. They have always abused their powers in that area. The entire high command overseeing Bawku operations must be restructured. A fresh, neutral group should be deployed officers who will act impartially and professionally,” he added.

He also condemned a separate gun attack by an unidentified youth on a military-escorted vehicle, calling for calm while urging state institutions to act swiftly to prevent an escalation of violence.

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