The Chairman of the NPP Russia Branch, Dr. Abongo Ajene, has defended the activities of the newly launched Lions of NPP group in the Upper East Region, insisting that the organization should not be classified as a vigilante group.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Dr. Ajene reiterated his opposition to vigilantism and expressed support for Ghana’s Vigilantism and Related Offences Act. However, he argued that the Lions of NPP differ significantly from groups associated with political violence and destruction.
“If they talk of vigilante groups, we all know the law is against it. Even we, the Ghanaians, are against it. We don’t want destructive institutions.”
“I am not for vigilantism and I support the law that is against vigilantes, that is Act 999 of 2019.”
According to him, the group has existed for about two years and recently held a formal launch rather than being newly formed. He noted that members previously assisted during political activities, including providing support during the visit of former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to the Upper East Region.
“This is just a launch. It is just a launch. It is not a formation. It was already there. And when Bawumia came to Bolgatanga Central or in the Upper East Region and was touring, these were the young people who were using their motorbikes, leading Bawumia, controlling him, blocking, maybe protecting his patrol teams going from one constituency to another constituency. So they have been in existence.”
Dr. Ajene described the group as a volunteer security outfit that helps maintain order during party events and guides members during political gatherings. He maintained that their activities have so far been peaceful and constructive.
He further stated that the group operates alongside state security agencies during major events and should be viewed as a supportive body rather than a vigilante organization.
“In Ghana, we have a law. Before you do anything, you have to approach the police. So if Bawumia is coming, no matter what, because he is a former vice president of Ghana, he cannot come here and the police will not be aware,” he said.
“They were just like a support to the Ghana Police Service.”
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
