Tamale: Gbewaa Palace cancels 2025 Bugum festival

The Gbewaa Palace has officially called off this year’s Bugum (Fire) Festival in Tamale and its surrounding areas, citing rising tensions and security concerns that threaten peace and public safety.

The decision, announced in a statement on Thursday, July 3, 2025, followed high-level consultations led by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Ya-Na Abubakari II, with traditional authorities, security agencies, and key stakeholders.

“This decision comes in response to emerging tensions among certain factions in the area and reflects a deep commitment to safeguarding peace, unity, and the safety of all citizens,” the statement noted.

Though the Bugum Festival holds deep cultural significance within the Dagbon Kingdom, the Ya-Na made it clear that the prevailing atmosphere of unrest left no room for its safe celebration this year.

“While the Ndan Ya-Na recognises the rich cultural heritage and profound significance of the Fire Festival to the people. The paramount concern at this time is the preservation of harmony and the prevention of any activities that could heighten existing tensions,” the statement added.

The Palace has instructed all traditional leaders to relay the decision to their respective communities and cooperate fully with security services to maintain calm.

In a call for solidarity and vigilance, the Ya-Na urged residents to put peace above all else and to support ongoing efforts to safeguard the region’s stability.

“The Ndan Ya-Na appeals to all residents to remain vigilant, cooperative, and steadfast in upholding the peace that is vital for the progress and well-being of the area. It is the hope of the Ndan Ya-Naa that the Festival will resume in the near future under more favourable and peaceful circumstances,” the statement said.

The cancellation marks a rare interruption of one of Dagbon’s most sacred cultural events, underscoring the seriousness of the current tensions. Authorities say they remain committed to restoring a peaceful environment that will allow future celebrations to proceed without threat.