The Birifor Youth Association (BYA) has raised concerns over escalating communal hostilities in Gbenteng (Gbeniyiri) and surrounding communities in the Sawla-Kalba-Tuna District of the Savannah Region, urging swift intervention to restore peace and protect lives.
The clashes, reportedly triggered by a land dispute in Gbenteng, have spiraled into violent confrontations marked by armed attacks, burning of homes, and killings.
As of Sunday, at least five lives had been lost, several people injured, and properties destroyed, leaving families—particularly women and children—vulnerable and displaced.
In a statement signed by its president, Mrs. Neormah Nyoon Brew, BYA condemned the violence as “alarming and unacceptable,” while accusing the police of failing to act professionally in handling the situation.
“It’s as if security is not in the district. The Birifor people no longer believe the police have been fair and professional in their response,” the statement read.
The association is therefore calling for urgent measures to restore peace and stability in the area.
It appealed to the Yagbonwura and the Bolewura to exercise their authority and wisdom to calm tensions and foster dialogue among the feuding groups.
The BYA stressed that the revered roles of these traditional leaders have historically served as pillars of unity and must once again be brought to bear in resolving the conflict.
In addition, the youth group urged all parties involved to immediately de-escalate the violence and embrace dialogue over confrontation.
It further called on government to deploy adequate and impartial security forces to protect all communities fairly and without discrimination, warning that continued lapses in security would only worsen the crisis.
The BYA also demanded a swift and independent investigation into the root causes and handling of the clashes to ensure accountability and prevent future recurrence.
Beyond these measures, the group appealed for urgent humanitarian support to be provided to families displaced and affected by the violence, many of whom have lost their homes and livelihoods.
The youth group also appealed to Birifors at home and abroad to remain calm and steadfast in the pursuit of peace, stressing that “there is no substitute for peace.”
“The Birifor Youth Association stands ready to collaborate with traditional authorities, government, and security agencies to restore calm and lasting harmony in the affected areas,” the statement affirmed.
