U.S. Embassy issues alert on Dagbon; warns citizens against travelling to town

The U.S. Embassy in Ghana has warned its citizens, particularly embassy personnel against travelling to Tamale, Yendi and surrounding villages ahead of the final funeral rite for Yaa Naa Mahamudu Abudulai on Friday.

The government of Ghana has deployed a heavy police and military force to the town to avert any possible conflict, however, the security alert from the U.S. Embassy warns citizens that “extreme violence is likely and there are inadequate medical resources in the region.”

“All but mission-essential travel by U.S. Embassy personnel to these regions is not advisable until the issue is resolved. Our ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas is extremely limited,” the alert stated.

The conflict between the Andanis and Abudu’s over who becomes the Yaa Naa or paramount chief of Dagbon has raged for more than 16 years, leading to the destruction of properties and the countless deaths.

Read the full alert from the U.S Embassy below;

Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Accra, Ghana (December 10, 2018)

Location: Northern Region (Tamale/Yendi and surrounding areas).

Event: Beginning on December 14, 2018, groups in Tamale, Yendi, and surrounding villages will hold funerals for their respective former chieftains. Extreme violence is likely and there are inadequate medical resources in the region.

All but mission-essential travel by U.S. Embassy personnel to these regions is not advisable until the issue is resolved. Our ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these areas is extremely limited.

Actions to Take:

Avoid travel to or through the Northern Region, especially the surrounding areas from Tamale and Yendi;

Keep a low profile;

Avoid crowds and demonstrations;

Monitor local media for updates;

Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance;

Remain aware of your surroundings; and

Review your personal security plans.

Source: Myjoyonline.com