By Sarah Baafi
Following the imposition of a curfew on Walewale and its environs, Walewale Member of Parliament, Dr. Mahama Tiah Abdul-Kabiru, has criticised government’s decision, calling it “poorly made and politically motivated”.
The curfew, effective February 15, 2025, was announced by Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak in response to growing security concerns. It also restricts movement from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. and bans the carrying of arms.
But Dr. Abdul-Kabiru expressed his disapproval of the curfew, stating that the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Defence consulted with MPs from the Bawku area while neglecting to consult with him, despite the curfew’s impact on his constituency.
He also claimed the decision was an attempt to punish innocent civilians.
“This is clearly a decision that does not seek to foster peace but an attempt to use state power to unjustifiably punish innocent civilians,” he said in a post on Facebook.
The MP argued that if a curfew was necessary, it should have been implemented in other areas experiencing similar attacks, such as Binduri, Ziblila, and Garu. He suggested increased highway patrols and military escorts for travellers as a more effective security measure.
Dr. Abdul-Kabiru also condemned the military’s alleged brutality against civilians in the area and pledged to seek justice for the victims. He appealed to the public to assist security services in maintaining peace but urged the Interior Ministry to reconsider the curfew and pursue inclusive engagement for lasting peace and stability.
