Beyond The Curfew: Sampa's Security Concerns, Economic Decline And The Need For Local Leadership

What happens when a security measure intended to protect a community gradually becomes a threat to its economic survival? How long should farmers wait for buyers, traders struggle to protect their investments, and businesses operate under uncertainty before authorities reconsider the wider consequences? More importantly, who speaks for ordinary residents whose livelihoods are caught between public security and economic survival?

These questions deserve serious consideration in Sampa, the commercial and administrative capital of the Jaman North District.

The curfew, introduced on 18 April 2024 following chieftaincy-related disturbances, was an understandable response to security concerns. However, nearly three years after its introduction, it is necessary to ask whether the circumstances justifying its continued enforcement have been sufficiently reassessed.

Security interventions must not be measured solely by the absence of violent confrontations. Their economic and social consequences must also inform decisions about their continuation. In Sampa, growing concerns among residents suggest that the discussion must extend beyond security to consider livelihoods, commercial activities and community development.

The Cashew Economy and the Disappearing Buyers

One of the most worrying concerns emerging from conversations with residents is the impact of the curfew on the cashew trade, an important economic activity in Jaman North.

Traditionally, between October and December, cashew buyers and investors travel from one farming community to another to negotiate purchases directly with farmers. They often return to Sampa late at night, where they coordinate their commercial activities.

However, movement restrictions have disrupted this established pattern. According to accounts from residents and people involved in the trade, some buyers now park their trucks in neighbouring villages overnight because they cannot return to Sampa within the permitted hours. Unfortunately, residents report incidents of cashew bags being stolen from these trucks.

The consequences are concerning. Buyers who repeatedly experience such losses may reconsider doing business in the area. Residents report that several companies have left Sampa, while the number of buyers visiting farming communities has declined.

As the 2026 cashew trading season progresses, farmers are reportedly waiting for buyers to arrive and negotiate purchases. This should concern district authorities because agricultural production alone cannot guarantee improved livelihoods. Farmers equally need accessible markets, reliable buyers and a secure commercial environment.

When buyers withdraw, farmers bear the consequences through reduced market access, uncertainty and potentially unfavourable bargaining conditions. The question is whether sufficient attention is being given to these economic implications.

Emerging Concerns About Criminal Activities.

Beyond the agricultural economy, residents continue to express concerns about reported criminal activities, particularly shop break-ins and theft.

Complaints about individuals breaking into shops and stealing merchandise and money deserve serious attention from the police and relevant security authorities.

Although it would be premature to attribute an increase in criminal activities directly to the curfew without reliable crime statistics, these reports raise legitimate questions about the effectiveness of existing security arrangements.

A curfew should not merely restrict the movement of law-abiding citizens; it must form part of a broader security strategy that protects lives and property. Residents must sleep peacefully, traders must feel confident about the safety of their businesses, and farmers must be assured that their produce is protected.

The Responsibility of the MCE and Local Leadership.

As a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), I find the situation particularly concerning. The party's commitment to grassroots development, economic opportunities and improved living conditions must be reflected in how local governance challenges are addressed.

The Municipal Chief Executive occupies an important position in communicating residents' concerns to the appropriate government institutions. Although the authority to impose or lift a curfew rests with the Minister for the Interior, acting on the advice of the relevant security authorities, the MCE has a responsibility to represent the people and facilitate meaningful engagements.

Of particular interest was the engagement between concerned Sampa youth and the MCE following the adjournment, to 20 November 2026, of the ongoing Kumasi High Court chieftaincy case involving the two rival claimants to the Sampa Paramount Stool, Nana Samgba Gyafla II and Nana Okogyeama Yaw Sammor-Duah, as the court proceedings had previously featured prominently in the justification for maintaining the curfew.

During their engagement, the MCE reportedly informed the youth that he had forwarded a report on the matter to the regional authorities.

While this represents an administrative step, questions remain about the report's contents, recommendations and the response received from the regional authorities.

Does the report address the changing circumstances surrounding the chieftaincy dispute, the prevailing security situation and the economic difficulties confronting residents? Has the Bono Regional Security Council responded? What concrete steps are being taken towards ending the curfew?

These are legitimate questions that deserve clear answers.

The people of Sampa are not merely asking for another review of the restrictions. They want the curfew completely lifted when security conditions permit, allowing normal social and economic activities to resume.

Beyond Security: Restoring Normal Economic Life.

It would be irresponsible to disregard the security circumstances that necessitated the curfew. The chieftaincy dispute remains sensitive, and preserving peace must remain a priority.

However, security interventions must respond to prevailing realities. Where circumstances change, authorities must be willing to reconsider restrictions that impose high economic and social costs.

The people of Sampa should not endure prolonged economic hardship without clear communication about the circumstances preventing the restoration of normal life.

Residents deserve transparency and regular updates. If a report has been submitted, its key recommendations and the progress of subsequent engagements should be communicated to the public.

Sampa cannot afford to become a community where economic opportunities gradually disappear while residents remain uncertain about their future.

The people are not demanding that security agencies compromise public safety. They are demanding that their economic survival, freedom of movement and right to normal community life receive equal consideration.

The MCE must therefore demonstrate leadership by providing clarity on the report submitted to the regional authorities and communicating the concrete steps being taken towards ending the curfew. Leadership goes beyond forwarding reports to higher authorities; it requires transparency, effective communication and accountability to the people whose welfare public institutions are mandated to protect.

Ibrahim Mumuni | Political Commentator and Member of the NDC, Jaman North Constituency.