The Ghana Education Service (GES) has closed down Nkwanta Senior High School in the Oti Region after violent clashes in the area led to the tragic deaths of three students.
The Acting Regional Director of Education confirmed the shutdown, citing concerns for safety. “There is the need to safeguard the lives of students and staff,” the director stated.
The closure follows two consecutive days of violence on June 26 and 27. During the chaos, two female day students were hit by gunfire while on their way to school, and a male student was fatally struck by a stray bullet while sitting in a classroom during mock exams.
In the aftermath, eight people have been arrested in connection with the incidents, which have heightened tensions in the Nkwanta township and surrounding areas.
To restore order, the Ghana Police Service has deployed a comprehensive security response. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) John Nchor, the Public Affairs Officer for the Oti Regional Police Command, said police presence in the area has been significantly increased.
“As I am talking, calm has been restored in Nkwanta following the recent violent incident. Swift and decisive actions have been taken to maintain law and order,” he assured.
The Ministry of Education has also expressed sorrow over the loss of lives. “The Ministry commiserates with all students, their families, staff of Nkwanta SHS, and everyone affected by these senseless acts of violence within the community,” it said in a statement, adding that it is committed to ensuring the school reopens in a peaceful environment.
The unrest is linked to a longstanding conflict involving the Akyode, Adele, and Chala ethnic groups, which has plagued Nkwanta and its surrounding towns for years. In recent times, the situation has worsened, resulting in multiple casualties and the destruction of properties.
In response to the escalating violence, the government placed a curfew on the area. Acting on the recommendation of the Oti Regional Security Council, the Minister for the Interior revised the curfew hours for Nkwanta Township and its environs within the Nkwanta South Municipality. The new curfew now runs from 6:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., effective Thursday, June 26, 2025.
The government has renewed its appeal to traditional leaders, community influencers, and the youth to maintain calm and work towards peace. “Chiefs, opinion leaders, youth, and people of the area [are urged] to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting them and to use non-violent means to channel their energies into ensuring peace in the area,” it said.
In addition to the curfew, a complete ban has been imposed on the possession of arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons within the affected areas. Authorities have warned that anyone found in violation of this order will face arrest and prosecution.
