Member of Parliament for Bawku Central in the Upper East Region, Mr Mahama Ayariga, has stated that the ongoing conflict in Bawku prevented his party's flagbearer, John Mahama, from visiting some towns during his regional tour.

Mr. Ayariga explained that security experts advised the NDC's John Mahama to avoid the conflict zone to ensure the safety of his entourage and the residents who wished to follow his team.

In a statement dated August 4, Mr Ayariga apologized to the aggrieved youth who subsequently went on a rampage.

"Even yesterday, Mr John Dramani Mahama could not drive through the town.

"We had to bypass Bawku because many of the youth wanted to follow him on the tour, and driving through the town with them posed a risk," Mr Ayariga said.

He further elaborated on the difficulties faced by his uncle in attending the rally, emphasizing the security concerns that led to the decision to avoid passing through the town.

"The youth demanded that John Dramani Mahama come to them, but the security situation was not favourable, and we didn't want to trigger any incidents.

"As a result, when we decided to bypass the town, the youth became very bitter, leading to the burning of posters of John Mahama and myself.

"It was due to the security experts' advice not to take the risk.

"It is painful and it hurts," he emphasised.

His statement followed viral videos showing NDC youth in Natinga burning party paraphernalia, including posters of the parliamentary and presidential candidates