Bawku: The Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has ordered the closure of seven courts in the Upper East Region following renewed chieftaincy clashes in Bawku. The courts affected by this directive are the Bolgatanga High Court, Bolgatanga Circuit, Bolgatanga District Court, Zuarungu District Court, Zebilla District Court, Garu District Court, and Bongo District Court. According to Ghana News Agency, the closure directive was contained in a statement signed by Justice Cynthia Pamela C.A Koranteng JA, the Judiciary Secretary. The statement highlighted that the decision was made to ensure the safety and security of judges, staff, lawyers, and court users. Concerns raised by lawyers and other stakeholders about the escalating situation in Bawku and its surrounding areas prompted this immediate action. The statement further instructed registrars to maintain all court assets in proper custody and advised all staff to prioritize their safety. The directive concluded with a note of court esy on behalf of the Chief Justice. The clashes in Bawku were reportedly triggered by the return of a rival chief, whose enskinment had earlier been deemed illegal by a High Court. The withdrawal of an arrest warrant against this chief enabled his return, escalating tensions and leading to violent confrontations. The conflict reportedly began with the alleged killing of an 11-year-old girl by one of the factions involved. This has resulted in the deaths of more than 20 people within the Bawku Township, with additional violence spilling over onto the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Walewale, where unidentified armed men attacked travelers, resulting in eight fatalities and several injuries.