Tension gripped Nkwanta Senior High School in the Oti Region on Tuesday evening after a group of enraged students launched a violent protest, vandalising school property—including a school bus—following a search operation by teachers to confiscate unauthorized mobile phones.

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The incident, which occurred around 8 p.m. on May 13, 2025, has left school authorities and local officials deeply concerned about student discipline and safety on campus.

Headmaster Solomon Bagman, who was off-campus at the time of the disturbance, described the situation as alarming. He confirmed that teachers conducted a targeted search for mobile phones, but were shocked to discover other contraband items, including knives, pliers, and what he called “sophisticated gadgets.”

“Where did the students even get money to buy such dangerous tools?” the headmaster questioned, expressing disbelief at the range of items seized during the operation.

Additionally, Mr. Bagman disclosed that clothing not sanctioned by the school—used by students to sneak off campus—was also confiscated, suggesting a wider issue of rule-breaking among students.

Local Authorities Intervene

In response to the unrest, Headmaster Bagman swiftly contacted security personnel to restore order. No injuries have been reported so far, but the destruction of school assets has raised concerns over rising indiscipline in second-cycle institutions.

Municipal Chief Executive Joseph Awal Antwi called for calm, assuring both students and staff that security forces were managing the situation and working to prevent further escalation.

“We urge everyone to remain calm and allow the security officers to handle the matter,” he said.

Academic Activities to Continue

Despite the unrest, the Nkwanta Municipal Education Director, Jonathan Korsinah, has instructed teachers to resume classes while efforts are made to address the root causes of the incident.

“Teaching and learning must continue,” he said, noting that further discussions and disciplinary actions would follow once the situation is fully assessed.

Authorities are expected to launch a formal investigation into the causes of the student unrest, with possible sanctions for those found culpable. Meanwhile, parents and guardians have been urged to speak with their wards and reinforce the importance of discipline and respect for school rules.