Tensions are rising in Navrongo as concerns raised by paramount chiefs over the ongoing impasse at St. John Bosco College of Education remain unaddressed.
The traditional authorities have strongly opposed efforts by the college’s authorities to remove the institution’s principal, Professor Joseph Amikuzuno. They argue that the principal has demonstrated exceptional leadership and should be allowed to continue his work.
Their calls, however, appear to have been ignored, fueling frustration among stakeholders and residents.
Efforts to remove Professor Amikuzuno have sparked fierce resistance from students, alumni, residents, and traditional rulers. Earlier this week, demonstrators comprising residents, students, and alumni marched through the principal streets of Navrongo to express their dissatisfaction. Although police intervened to truncate the protest, the demonstrators successfully submitted their petition.
The National Association of Alumni of the college also held a press conference, demanding the principal’s reinstatement.
Prominent traditional leaders, including Pe Adiale Ayagitam III, President of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Chiana Traditional Area; Naba Asobayire II, Paramount Chief of the Kologo Traditional Area; and Navro Pio Dennis Adda II, Paramount Chief of the Navrongo Traditional Area, have publicly supported the calls for the principal’s reinstatement.
Despite these efforts, no resolution has been reached, leaving residents increasingly aggrieved.
Speaking to Channel One News, Naba Asobayire II expressed disappointment over the lack of action, calling for swift intervention to resolve the matter and restore peace in the area.
“We as chiefs are not doing it because we have a relationship with Amikuzuno but we are doing it because there is a reason and the reason is that we also need development. There needs to be improvement of our facility, the college. And for the four years that this gentleman Amikuzuno came to head the school, the development he has brought is unmatched,” he stated.
The National Association of St John Bosco College of Education alumni in a press conference promised to resist all attempts by any individual to axe the Principal of the school. They stated that their concerns must be respected because they are stakeholders in the school.
“If they ignore us, we will also make sure that we don’t contribute to the development to the development of the college. If you go to the college now, all the halls of residents have been renovated by the alumni,” stated David Amoliga, the National Alumni Vice President.
Other residents who spoke to Channel One News indicated if the school’s council chairman does not respect the calls by stakeholders, the council cannot bear the consequences at the end
“The council chair and his members should listen to the agitators because the consequences of this matter are going to be disgraceful and will not be welcome by him. To save his own word, he should rethink and sit with the Prof and extend his tenure of office,” he stated.
Stakeholders oppose removal of St. John Bosco College principal
