65% of Gbeniyiri conflict victims return hom

By Solomon Nartey Tetteh

The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, has disclosed that more than 65 per cent of Ghanaians who fled to neighbouring Ivory Coast following the Gbeniyiri conflict have returned home.

Addressing a press conference in Accra, the Minister said ongoing peacebuilding efforts by the government and traditional leaders are restoring confidence among displaced residents.

The violent clashes, sparked by a land dispute, claimed six lives , five on Sunday, 24 August, and another the following morning.

At least 18 others were injured, several critically, while homes and properties were destroyed, forcing thousands, especially women and children, to flee for safety.

Mr Muntaka assured that the government is committed to restoring lasting peace in Gbeniyiri and surrounding communities. He noted that security forces remain on the ground to maintain order as mediation continues.

“I can tell you today that more than 65 per cent of the people have returned home. Our biggest concern, however, remains those still outside the borders. Many are already coming back, but we want to facilitate the process to make it even faster. We are receiving strong cooperation from the chiefs and the youth. We have set ourselves a target: by the end of the month, when the committee completes its work, we should be able to bring almost everyone back home,” he said.