Gbinyiri clashes: Over 13,000 Ghanaians flee to Côte d’Ivoire – Muntaka

Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has revealed that more than 13,000 Ghanaians have crossed into Côte d’Ivoire following violent clashes over the Gbinyiri land dispute.

According to him, official data from Ivorian authorities places the figure at 13,253 refugees.

“As of yesterday [September 3], working with the Ivorian authorities, we can confirm that about 13,000 individuals are in Côte d’Ivoire. The exact number communicated to us by the government is 13,253,” the minister disclosed in an interview with Joy FM on September 4.

The Interior minister noted that the violence has forced displacements across four regions, with many still stranded in Upper West and Savannah, while a substantial number fled across the border through riverine communities.

“We have displaced persons across about four regions… some substantial number also crossed the river. If you know the terrain very well, it has a border community with Côte d’Ivoire,” he explained.

Mr. Muntaka assured that the government, district assemblies, and international partners are mobilising aid for the affected.

“We are supporting them the best that we can, and let me take this opportunity to also thank the government of Côte d’Ivoire for the support that they are giving us in the cooperation, and then the UNHCR for their support,” the minister stated.

He praised the security services for their dedication despite immense pressure.

“My special thanks go to them [security services] because, believe me, they have been overworked. We thank them so much for the sacrifice that they are making. We don’t take their sacrifices lightly. We know they are doing the best that they can to keep our country safe,” he noted.

The minister disclosed that the government is working closely with traditional leaders and the Peace Council to restore calm.

“This morning [September 4], the delegation of the Gonjaland leadership with the Peace Council is meeting the Yagbonwura. And I’m very optimistic about the way we are working. Hopefully by tomorrow [September 5] or at least by Monday [September 8], we are setting up a committee to investigate all this and then come out with a report on how best we can avoid this from recurring,” he said.

He noted that displaced families may be permitted to return home soon, pending the restoration of normalcy

“Once we sit at the committee and today’s meeting with Yagbonwura concludes very well, we may be able to announce to all the displaced persons to return to their homes because of this farming season.

“Many of them left their animals and their farms, and all those were left unattended. If we don’t resolve this quickly, it will lead to a lot of food insecurity in that area,” he warned.

Background

Gbiniyiri, a farming community in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, has been gripped by violence over a land dispute.

On Tuesday, August 26, the Chief’s Palace in Gbiniyiri was set ablaze amid escalating tensions, just days after deadly clashes in the area left six people dead and 18 others injured. The conflict began when the local chief sold a parcel of land to a private developer, a move strongly opposed by some residents. Violence broke out after the developer attempted to start work and was met with resistance from the community.

The clashes on Sunday, August 24, claimed five lives, with another person killed the following day. Many of the injured were treated with gunshot and machete wounds.

The ongoing unrest has forced many residents—especially women and children—to flee their homes. Several houses and properties have also been destroyed.

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