The Office of the President has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, to investigate allegations of land encroachment on the Ghana International School (GIS) by individuals reportedly linked to the Jubilee House. The directive comes in response to a series of incidents that have raised concerns about the safety and ownership of the school’s property.
The inquiry follows multiple incidents involving attempts to gain access to the GIS property. On August 29, 2024, an attempt was made to deliver blocks onto the school’s land without prior authorization. Just days later, on August 31, 2024, a tipper truck carrying sand was intercepted while trying to enter the premises. These incidents have heightened tensions between the school administration and those allegedly connected to the Presidential office.
The swift intervention of the GIS security team, in collaboration with the Cantonments Police, led to the arrest of two individuals believed to be involved in the attempted encroachments. Among those detained was Chief Superintendent Ibrahim Opoku, a plain-clothed officer who identified himself as being from the VVIP unit of the Office of the President. The involvement of a high-ranking officer from the Presidency has added a new dimension to the dispute, prompting calls for a thorough investigation.
In response to these events, the management of GIS has taken proactive steps to safeguard its property and prevent further unauthorized access. The school has warned that it will not tolerate any future attempts to encroach upon its land and has reiterated its commitment to defending its property rights through all legal and security means available.
On September 5, 2024, the Jubilee House released an official statement denying any involvement in the alleged encroachment. The statement clarified that Chief Superintendent Opoku was merely performing his duties by apprehending those he believed to be illegally attempting to access the school’s land. The statement further emphasized that Opoku’s actions were in line with his responsibilities, and he subsequently handed the detained individuals over to the Cantonments Police for further action.
The statement from the Office of the President also addressed the ongoing public discourse surrounding the incident. It called for calm and urged the public to disregard any conflicting or misleading statements circulating in the media. The Presidency reassured the public of its commitment to transparency and due process in resolving the matter.
To ensure a fair and impartial investigation, the Presidency has formally requested the IGP to look into the allegations thoroughly. This investigation is expected to examine all aspects of the incidents, including the actions of Chief Superintendent Opoku, the individuals who were arrested, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged encroachments. The aim is to establish the facts of the case and determine if any wrongdoing has occurred.
The directive for an investigation reflects the government’s stance on maintaining the rule of law and protecting the rights of all parties involved. The Office of the President has emphasized that it will not tolerate any illegal activities or misuse of authority by any individual, regardless of their affiliation or position.
For its part, GIS remains steadfast in its determination to protect its property and uphold its rights. The school administration has expressed its full cooperation with the investigation and welcomes any efforts to clarify the situation. In a statement, GIS reiterated that it is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for its students, staff, and community, free from any external threats or interference.
The call for an investigation by the IGP has been met with a mix of reactions from the public and stakeholders. While some have welcomed the move as a necessary step to uncover the truth, others have expressed skepticism, calling for transparency and accountability throughout the investigative process.
The incidents have sparked broader discussions on property rights, land ownership, and the responsibilities of law enforcement agencies in protecting private properties. For many, the situation at GIS serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and ensuring that property disputes are resolved fairly and justly.
As the investigation gets underway, all eyes will be on the IGP and the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the next steps for all parties involved and in restoring public confidence in the process.
In the meantime, the Office of the President has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the investigation and taking appropriate action based on its findings. The statement concluded with a call for patience and calm, encouraging the public to allow the investigative process to unfold without interference or speculation.
The situation remains fluid, and it is yet to be seen how the findings of the investigation will impact the parties involved. However, one thing is clear: the Ghana International School is resolute in its stand against encroachment, and the authorities are equally committed to ensuring that justice prevails.
Below is the official statement from the Office of the President:
“The Office of the President has no interest in the alleged land dispute involving Ghana International School. Chief Superintendent Ibrahim Opoku, who is attached to the VVIP unit, was acting within the scope of his duties to detain individuals suspected of unlawful entry onto the property. We have requested a thorough investigation by the IGP and urge the public to disregard any misleading information related to this incident.”
The statement underscores the government’s commitment to clarity and justice, aiming to resolve the matter conclusively.
