The Bokankye D/A Primary and Junior High School, located in the Atwima Nwabiagya North Municipality of the Ashanti Region, Ghana, found itself at the center of a land dispute that escalated into a temporary closure. On February 27, 2025, the peaceful learning environment was shattered by the unsettling sound of gunshots fired near the school premises. The incident, stemming from a contentious land ownership claim by two rival chiefs, instilled fear and panic among students, teachers, and staff, prompting school authorities to take immediate action and temporarily shut down the institution. The decision prioritized the safety and well-being of the school community amidst the escalating tensions.
The root cause of the disruption lies in the ongoing land dispute between the two chiefs, each asserting their claim to the land adjacent to the school. One faction, reportedly employing land guards to enforce their perceived ownership, resorted to violence resulting in the gunfire that disturbed the school’s operations. This act of intimidation not only disrupted the educational process but also created an atmosphere of insecurity, highlighting the vulnerability of the school caught in the crossfire of the chieftaincy conflict. The frequency of such incidents, with gunshots sometimes striking the roofs of school buildings, underscored the immediate threat to the safety and security of the students and staff.
The temporary closure of Bokankye D/A School became a necessary precaution to safeguard the school community until a resolution could be reached. School authorities and community leaders recognized the severity of the situation and sought to address the issue promptly and effectively. A meeting was convened on March 3rd, bringing together key stakeholders including school authorities, local community leaders, and the District Police Commander. This collaborative effort aimed to find a solution that would allow the school to reopen while ensuring the safety and security of everyone involved.
The meeting revealed a crucial development in the land dispute: a court injunction had been secured, prohibiting all parties involved from accessing the disputed land until the matter was resolved. This legal intervention provided a temporary reprieve and a framework for a peaceful resolution. The Ashanti Chief was identified as the final arbiter in the dispute, adding another layer of authority to the process. The District Police Commander, present at the meeting, reassured the school and community of their commitment to enforcing the court order and providing full security and protection for the students.
Based on the assurances received from the police and the court injunction in place, a collective decision was made to reopen the school on March 4th. The resumption of classes, however, came with the implementation of strict security measures to ensure the safety of the students and staff. This commitment to security aimed to alleviate concerns and rebuild confidence in the school environment following the unsettling incident. The Unit Committee Vice Chairman, Richard Kwabena Boateng, publicly urged parents to allow their children to return to school, emphasizing the commitment to their care and well-being.
The incident at Bokankye D/A School highlights the disruptive impact of land disputes on local communities, particularly when they encroach upon educational institutions. The temporary closure underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of students and staff in the face of such threats. The collaborative efforts of school authorities, community leaders, and law enforcement, coupled with the court injunction, paved the way for a peaceful resolution and the resumption of educational activities. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for effective land management practices and conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent such disruptions in the future. The commitment to providing a safe and secure learning environment remains paramount, allowing students to pursue their education without fear or interruption.
