Sampa, the capital of Ghana’s Jaman North District, has descended into turmoil following violent clashes stemming from a protracted chieftaincy dispute. The unrest, which erupted recently, has claimed lives, left a trail of destruction, and plunged the town into a state of fear and uncertainty.
The latest wave of violence has resulted in the tragic death of a woman, left a police officer injured by gunfire, and reduced significant portions of the town’s main market to ashes. Several homes have also been set ablaze, forcing residents to flee for safety amidst the chaos. The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Jaman North, Adane George, confirmed the severity of the situation in an interview with Adom News.
“As we speak, there is no peace in Sampa. It’s only gunshots and burning houses,” Mr. George lamented. “Our main market is on fire. One woman has been killed, and several homes have been set ablaze.”
The Trigger Behind the Violence
The chieftaincy conflict, which dates back to 2022, has been a recurring source of tension in Sampa. While the town had experienced relative calm in recent months, the situation flared up again following reports that the National House of Chiefs was preparing to gazette one of the rival claimants to the Sampa stool. This development reignited hostilities between factions vying for leadership.
“One side heard that the National House of Chiefs would gazette one of the claimants, and that triggered the unrest,” Mr. George explained.
Ironically, the violence erupted on a day when the District Security Council (DISEC) was convening to review the curfew imposed on Sampa due to previous disturbances. According to the DCE, discussions were underway to potentially ease restrictions when gunfire broke out across the town.
“Today, DISEC had a meeting to review the curfew because Sampa has been calm for a while. Unfortunately, the violence broke out before we could even finish the meeting,” he noted.
The Human Cost
The human toll of this conflict is devastating. Beyond the loss of life and injuries sustained, many residents have been forced to abandon their homes, seeking refuge in safer areas or barricading themselves indoors. The injured police officer is currently receiving medical attention, but sporadic gunfire continues to instill fear in those who remain in Sampa.
“Many people have fled the town. Others are locked in their rooms. Reinforcements are on their way to stabilize the situation,” Mr. George stated.
Urgent Need for Intervention
Security agencies have been placed on high alert as additional personnel are deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation. However, local authorities warn that without swift intervention from the national government, the situation could spiral out of control.
“If government does not intervene quickly, the situation could escalate even further,” Mr. George cautioned. He called for urgent national security support and logistical assistance to contain the unrest and restore peace to Sampa.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing chieftaincy dispute underscores deeper governance and conflict resolution challenges within traditional leadership structures. While efforts are underway to stabilize Sampa, long-term solutions will require dialogue, mediation, and a commitment to addressing underlying grievances.
As residents await relief from this harrowing ordeal, it is imperative that all stakeholders—local authorities, security agencies, traditional leaders, and national government—work collaboratively to bring an end to this cycle of violence. The people of Sampa deserve peace, stability, and a path forward that prioritizes their safety and well-being.
-Adomonline
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
