The death toll from the recent attack on Odomi in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region has risen to four after one of the injured victims succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment.
The attack, which occurred on Friday, left 10 other people with gunshot wounds and has heightened tensions in a municipality already struggling with a long-standing ethnic and land dispute.
Authorities say the latest fatality has deepened concerns over security in the area, where recurring clashes have repeatedly disrupted efforts to maintain peace.
Long-Running Dispute Fuels Tensions
Nkwanta South has experienced intermittent violence over the years, largely linked to disputes among the Adele, Akyode and Challa communities over land ownership and territorial boundaries.
Despite several interventions by security agencies, traditional leaders and government officials, a lasting solution to the conflict remains elusive.
The latest incident has renewed fears of further violence and raised concerns about the safety of residents in affected communities.
Curfew Imposed to Restore Calm
In response to the attack, the Ministry of the Interior, acting on the advice of the National Security Council, has imposed a curfew on several communities within the municipality.
The curfew takes effect daily from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and will remain in force until further notice.
Affected communities include Nkwanta, Bonakye, Odomi, Nyankoma, Power, Kromase, Shiare, Nyambo, Abrewanko and Keri.
Authorities have also maintained restrictions on the possession and carrying of weapons as part of efforts to prevent further violence.
Security Presence Intensified
Security agencies, supported by military personnel, have stepped up patrols across the municipality to maintain law and order and reassure residents.
Officials say efforts are underway to restore calm while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the four deceased victims have been deposited at the morgue of St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Authorities are urging residents to remain calm, cooperate with security personnel and resolve grievances through peaceful and lawful channels as measures continue to stabilise the area.
