Youth in Sumbrungu protest road accidents, block Navrongo–Bolgatanga Highway

             Source      A1radioonline 

  News        Ghana  

 

Youth in Sumbrungu protest road accidents, block Navrongo–Bolgatanga Highway

The youth of Sumbrungu, led by the Assembly Member for the Sumbrungu Azorebisi Electoral Area, Elias Ayinbila Apasiya, have raised concerns about the frequent accidents and loss of lives—especially among school children—on the Navrongo–Bolgatanga Highway between the Sumbrungu Azimso and Aloreyikuka stretch.

 

The area, which is home to several schools, has witnessed numerous accidents due to over-speeding motorists, prompting the youth to take drastic measures.

Led by Mr. Apasiya, the youth blocked portions of the highway in the early hours of Friday, February 6, 2026, after voicing their frustration to the media. The action temporarily halted Upper East Regional Police Commander, DCOP John Ferguson Dzineku, who was traveling to Paga on official business.

DCOP Dzineku questioned the protesters, describing the blockade as unlawful. “Assembly Member, you should know better that you cannot block the road. Why are you doing this?” he asked.

However, Mr. Apasiya explained that the continuous pedestrian knockdowns, particularly involving school children, had reached alarming levels, with no action taken despite repeated appeals. “Sir, I have written several letters to the Highways Authority on this issue. Nothing has been done, yet community members and students continue to die here. I am sorry I did not copy your office,” he said.

After hearing the concerns, DCOP Dzineku exchanged contacts with the Assembly Member and assured him that upon his return from Paga, they would visit the Upper East Regional Minister to address the issue. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation and committed to ensuring the safety of residents, particularly school children, in the Sumbrungu Azimso area.

The region continues to struggle with road safety challenges, contributing to increased accident-related deaths. The Bolgatanga Municipality, where Sumbrungu is located, records the highest number of road crashes in the Upper East Region, with motorbikes being a major contributor.