By Patience Tawiah, GNA
Nkwanta (O/R), June 30, GNA-Over 28 organised labour unions, professional associations and other workers’ groups in the Nkwanta South Municipality have threatened to lay down their tools if measures if the government failed to end the protracted conflict in the area.
The unions have issued a 30-day ultimatum to the government to take clear and measurable steps to end the conflict in the area.
Mr Frank Denteh, a teacher and Mr Edward Amoah a health worker, speaking on behalf of all workers, during a press conference, described the conflict as a recurring crisis that has claimed lives, destroyed property, displaced families, disrupted economic activity and weakened essential public services over several years.
They said recent incidents have further worsened insecurity, resulting in deaths and injuries, repeated school closures, and the relocation of teachers and other professionals who feared for their safety.
While acknowledging government efforts to date, they insisted that the moment calls for firmer, more decisive action to prevent further deterioration.
According to the unions, the immediate consequences are being felt in nearly every aspect of daily life, the persistent threats to life particularly for students, women and workers alongside the breakdown of regular schooling and business activity.
The unions also cited unsafe working conditions for public sector employees and other essential service providers, deepening fear and mistrust among communities, and rising displacement.
Their petition referenced displacement figures of more than 353 households and over 764 individuals as of February 2026, warning that the situation is fueling psychological trauma, social instability, and long-term disruption to community life.
The unions further noted that development projects and investment have stalled, while resources that could have supported local development are repeatedly redirected into security operations.
The unions are calling on the government to urgently establish a comprehensive and permanent conflict-resolution framework involving traditional authorities, community leaders, youth groups, security agencies, and other key stakeholders.
The government must also strengthen security presence and intelligence gathering to prevent further violence and protect lives and property.
Also, facilitate a lasting settlement of underlying issues through dialogue, mediation, and lawful processes and roll out a long-term peacebuilding and social cohesion programme for Nkwanta and surrounding communities.
They cautioned that the worsening security environment is making it increasingly difficult for workers to carry out their duties safely and effectively.
The unions warned that if the government fails to demonstrate concrete progress within 30 days of receiving the petition, organised labour in the area will embark on a total withdrawal of services until conditions improve.
Residents also used the occasion to appeal for a review of the curfew, which currently runs from 1700hours to 2000hours, arguing that it constrains livelihoods.
Some said evening hours are often the only time they can sell and earn enough to support their families, stressing that poverty is worsening and that lasting peace remains the only sustainable solution.
In addition, persons with disabilities in the Municipality appealed for support, noting that they remain particularly vulnerable during periods of unrest and face added barriers to safety and economic survival.
Overall, the unions and residents renewed calls for urgent government intervention, warning that without a credible pathway to peace, the municipality risks further loss of life, deeper displacement, and the collapse of already strained public services.
Mr Joseph Awal Antwi, the Municipal Chief Executive for Nkwanta South, received the petition and assured the unions of government continued efforts to resolve the insecurity issues in the area to safeguard all workers within the municipality.
He also assured them that the petition would be sent to the appropriate authorities for immediate action and the safety of all persons in the area.
GNA
Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah