The Overlord of Dabang, Yaa Naa Abukari II, has banned this year’s fire festival celebration in Tamale due to insecurity in the area.
The festival was scheduled for July 5, but will not take place in Tamale.
Recently, Tamale has seen a surge in violent gun battles.
A week ago, two groups clashed, resulting in one death and several others sustaining gunshot injuries.
Despite a ban on brandishing guns at traditional events, the area has witnessed cases of gun battles among youth.
The Yaa Naa had previously banned the use and possession of arms at traditional events in Dagbon to help mitigate the situation.
The Northern Regional Police Commander has also raised concerns about the upcoming fire festival in Tamale due to the prevailing security situation.
Given the circumstances, N-dan Yaa Naa has deemed it necessary to ban the celebration in Tamale.
However, the fire festival will still be celebrated in other traditional areas under the jurisdiction of the Overlord. The ban is specific to Tamale.
The Bugum Festival, also known as the Fire Festival, is a significant cultural and religious event that commemorates the search for a lost prince.
It marks the beginning of the traditional lunar year and serves as an opportunity for communities to unite, reaffirm their bond, and pay homage to their ancestors.
During the festival, communities come together to celebrate with torchlight processions, accompanied by drumming and dancing.
These festivities symbolise the triumph of light over darkness, highlighting the importance of illumination and guidance in people’s lives.
The Bugum Festival is a cherished tradition that strengthens community ties and honours the past while embracing the future.
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