The government has declared a state of emergency in the northern region of the country after clashes between rival clans erupted in late March 2002. The king of the Dagombas, King Ya-Na Yakuba Andani II, was killed along with 27 of his supporters by quarreling factions within his kingdom. The king was shot and then beheaded, and police have yet to find his head.

Yakuba was recognized as one of Ghana's most revered traditional rulers and President John Kufuor has called his death a national tragedy. Fighting broke out during the annual Bugum (Fire) Festival - one of Ghana's most celebrated events - after a disagreement between members of the Andani and Abudu cheiftancies ended in the death of two men.

Since then, violence has spread throughout the entire region, leaving dozens dead and an estimated 1500 people displaced. The Ghanese government has sent troops into the area to restore order and has imposed a dusk to dawn curfew. The remainder of this year's Bugum celebration was canceled. Sources say the Andani and Abudu have been unable to see eye to eye since Ghana gained independence from Great Britain in 1957.

Several high-ranking government ministers resigned following Yakuba's death, and the president has ordered a full investigation into the matter. The US is advising its citizens to 'avoid unnecessary travel to the region until the situation improves.' UK officials advise that travelers exercise caution and remain vigilant.