The Catholic Diocese of Jasikan has expressed deep concern over the violent incident at Odomi in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region, which left three people dead and several others injured, and has called for calm and restraint amid rising tensions in the area.
The appeal comes after the government imposed a curfew on several communities in the municipality following the deadly attack. The curfew, which took effect on Friday, June 19, 2026, will be enforced daily from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. until further notice.
In a statement issued on June 19, the Bishop of Jasikan, Most Rev. Simon Kofi Appiah, described the incident as a disturbing development and part of a recurring pattern of violence that continues to threaten peace and security in the municipality.
“The Catholic Diocese of Jasikan has received with profound sorrow and grave concern reports of the violent incident that occurred at Odomi in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region, resulting in the shooting of seven persons and the tragic loss of three lives,” he stated.
The Bishop said the latest violence poses a serious threat to social harmony and human security and urged all parties involved, as well as members of the wider community, to remain calm and avoid actions that could further inflame tensions.
“Let us choose dialogue over hostility, understanding over suspicion, and peace over confrontation. At this critical moment, wisdom, patience, and goodwill are needed more than ever,” he urged.
Most Rev. Appiah extended condolences to families who lost loved ones in the attack and assured them of the prayers and support of the Church.
“On behalf of the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Diocese, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident,” the statement said.
The Diocese also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and stressed that violence only deepens divisions while failing to resolve underlying grievances.
“Experience consistently shows that violence may temporarily silence voices, but it never resolves underlying grievances. Lasting solutions are achieved only through dialogue, justice, mutual respect, and reconciliation,” the Bishop stated.
He further called on state institutions, security agencies and traditional authorities to work together to restore calm and create an environment where concerns can be addressed peacefully and constructively.
“The protection of human life and the preservation of peace must remain our highest priorities,” he stressed.
The Diocese also pledged its support for efforts aimed at dialogue, mediation and reconciliation.
“As a Church committed to the promotion of justice, peace, and the dignity of every human person, the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan stands ready to support all sincere efforts aimed at dialogue, mediation, reconciliation, and the pursuit of a just and lasting peace,” the statement added.
The Bishop also called on people of goodwill to pray for the victims, the injured, bereaved families and for lasting peace in Nkwanta and across the Oti Region.
The affected communities under the curfew include Keri, Abrewanko, Abrewanko Junction, Nyambo, Nyambo Junction, Shari, Kromase, Power, Nyakoma, Odomi, Bonakye and Nkwanta.
The restrictions were imposed following the attack at Odomi on Thursday, June 18, which heightened tensions in the municipality and prompted an immediate response from the government. Authorities say the measures are intended to restore calm and maintain security as efforts continue to address the situation.
