The Youth for Peace and Security (YPDS), Africa, have appealed to the United Nations (UN), to investigate the Volta Regional Coordinating Council over alleged corruption, criminality and human rights violations in the Alavanyo-Nkonya conflict.
According to the petition, an investigation is necessary and would prevent more deaths and ensure lasting peace in the communities.
There has been an age-long conflict between the Alavanyos and the Nkonyas over land disputes.
This has resulted in some deaths over the years with a prevailing curfew in the area.
Speaking to Citi News, the Executive Director of the Youth for Peace and Security, Abraham Korbla Klutsey, said the Regional Coordinating Council and some assemblies in the area must be investigated for their role in fueling the conflict.
“Volta Regional Coordinating Council has to be investigated; we can no longer hold on to the reason they are giving us as to why they are blocking the peace talks, saying they will not get credit and would be embarrassed when the peace talk goes on. Nineteen people have already lost their lives; we will not watch on for more people to lose their lives in the conflict,” he said.
In 2017, two persons were reported dead with others injured in a shooting incident in a bush between the Nkonya and Alavanyo communities.
Reports said some unknown assailants opened fire on five farmers from Nkonya-Ahinkro who were returning from their farm on Wednesday.
The Assemblyman for Nkonya Ntumda, Sylvester Akompi, who spoke to Citi News about the incident said residents of both towns were living in fear following news of the incident.
“Five people went to the farm; they are palm wine tappers. They were tapping between Nkonya and Alavanyo, precisely Nkonya Ahenkro. So they went to the farm, and it had rained a bit. On their way home, a group of people appeared with guns and started shooting. Everyone wanted to find his way; two people managed to hide somewhere, while three people were shot.”
The Volta Regional Minister, Archibald Letsa, also warned that the Alavanyo and Nkonya traditional areas are at risk of being starved of investments if the communities do not commit to peace.
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By: Farida Yusif/citinewsroom.com/Ghana