One killed in fresh Bunkpurugu shooting despite heavy security presence

A man was fatally shot in Bunkpurugu, a town in the North East Region, by unknown masked assailants on motorbikes, despite a significant security presence in the area. The victim, identified as Jaremian, a middle-aged individual, was reportedly shot near his home. The attack took place on Monday evening, following tensions that flared up on Sunday, November 1, when a lone gunman disrupted activities at the town's weekly market.

The violence is linked to a longstanding chieftaincy dispute between the Jamong and Jafouk royal families, which has led to frequent clashes and heightened fears of security breaches. The dispute escalated after the enskinment of Melchizedek Musah Jamung as the new chief of Bunkpurugu on September 14, 2026, amid ongoing legal challenges over the traditional authority of the Bunkpurugu skin.

The Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, has filed a contempt of court application at the High Court in Nalerigu, seeking to commit four individuals involved in the dispute. This move follows a February 24, 2026, decision by the Judicial Committee of the National House of Chiefs recommending the removal of Alhaji Abuba Nasimong from the position of chief. An appeal against the decision was filed at the Supreme Court on August 26, 2026.

The ongoing dispute has resulted in violence, loss of lives, property damage, and the displacement of residents. The September enskinment incident led to the death of a woman and injuries to four others. Security forces have intensified their presence in the region to maintain order. The Paramount Chief of Bunkpurugu, Naa Abuba Nasinmong, condemned the recent violence and appealed for restraint and an end to hostilities to restore peace and stability in the area.

Residents have criticized the effectiveness of security agencies in protecting lives and property, despite the high number of security personnel deployed. The latest killing has exacerbated fears among the community, who are worried about the potential for further violence to disrupt economic and social activities. There are calls for urgent and decisive action from the government and security agencies to prevent additional bloodshed and restore lasting peace in Bunkpurugu.