Omanghana
The Ministry of Education has strongly condemned a shooting incident at Zohe Evangelical Presbyterian (EP) Primary School in Yendi in the Northern Region, describing the attack as a serious threat to the safety of pupils, teachers, and educational institutions.
In a statement issued by the Ministry’s Press Secretary, Hashmin Mohammed, the ministry said schools must remain safe environments for teaching and learning and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
Armed Men Invade School Compound
According to the ministry, two armed men dressed in civilian clothing entered the premises of Zohe EP Primary School and allegedly fired multiple gunshots, throwing the school into panic.
The sound of gunfire forced pupils and teachers to flee for safety as the incident unfolded. Videos circulating on social media captured scenes of fear and confusion as students and staff scrambled to escape the danger.
Headmaster Assaulted
During the attack, the school’s headmaster was reportedly assaulted by the armed men and sustained injuries.
The assailants fled the scene shortly after the incident, leaving school authorities and the local community shaken.
Land Dispute Suspected
Although investigations are ongoing, preliminary reports indicate that the incident may be linked to a long-running land dispute.
The dispute is believed to involve attempts to develop part of the school’s football field, with reports suggesting that the land has become the subject of an ownership disagreement.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive, and police investigations are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Education Minister Orders Immediate Action
Following the incident, Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu directed the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations and ensure the immediate arrest of those responsible.
The ministry said it expects law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators before the courts.
School Temporarily Closed
As part of measures to protect pupils and staff, authorities have ordered the temporary closure of Zohe EP Primary School.
The closure will remain in effect while security agencies assess the situation and implement measures to ensure the safety of the school community before academic activities resume.
Ministry Warns Against Encroachment on School Lands
The Ministry of Education also used the opportunity to reiterate its warning against the unlawful encroachment on lands designated for educational institutions.
It stressed that school properties are public assets meant to support learning and development and should not be subjected to illegal occupation or development.
The ministry assured parents, teachers, and the public that it is working closely with the Ghana Police Service and other relevant authorities to restore calm and ensure that schools remain safe spaces for education across the country.
Source: Omanghana
