Nkwanta Crisis: Deadly Conflict Forces Mass Exodus as Curfew Fails to Calm Tensions
Tensions rise as violence forces residents to abandon their homes, despite military and police efforts to restore calm
- Three fatalities and numerous injuries following violence in Nkwanta on January 15-16
- Over 200 residents flee to neighboring towns, seeking safety despite the curfew
- Military and police forces deployed to restore order, but sporadic gunfire and fear persist in the area
Violence continues to grip Nkwanta in the Oti Region following last week’s deadly clash that claimed three lives and left many injured.
Despite the imposition of a curfew and the presence of military and police forces, fear and uncertainty have forced most residents to abandon the town.
A local teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, told Citi News that businesses, including schools, have been shut down, and only a few individuals are present at the market. While vehicles move freely, empty streets and closed stores reflect the tense atmosphere in the town.
The violence, which began on January 15 and spilled into the following day, has left a trail of destruction. The government has responded by deploying additional security personnel to restore order, but sporadic gunfire and unrest continue to haunt the area.
As of now, nearly 200 people have fled to nearby towns like Pampawie and Ahamansu in the Kadjebi District, which has become a refuge for the displaced.
