University of Ghana engages National Security to protect Borteyman land from encroachers

The University of Ghana (UG) has officially sought the intervention of the National Security Secretariat to address growing incidents of encroachment, harassment, and vandalism on its legally acquired land at Borteyman.

The decision follows multiple reports of assaults and destruction of property by unidentified individuals who allegedly claimed to be acting on behalf of National Security. Concerned by the increasing lawlessness, the University lodged a formal complaint, prompting a high-level visit to the disputed site.

A joint delegation, led by Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University, and Mr. Richard Jakpa, Director of Operations at National Security, visited Borteyman to assess the situation and initiate investigations into the disturbances.

The latest confrontation occurred as the University advanced plans to develop the land into staff accommodation facilities. The contested land, leased to the University for 200 years by the Government of Ghana, remains recognized as state property under UG’s custodianship.

Tensions reportedly escalated after 2018 when the University leased a section of the land to the then Ministry of Youth and Sports for the construction of the Borteyman Sports Complex, a major facility for the 2023 African Games. The project’s completion, coupled with new road access to the area, attracted land speculators and encroachers seeking to claim portions of the property.

To improve staff welfare, UG recently entered into a partnership with Fellow Limited Company to construct 26 apartment blocks comprising 208 residential units on part of the land. However, the project has been repeatedly disrupted by intruders who continue to challenge the University’s ownership.

Providing a historical background, Mr. Ernest Boakye, Deputy Director of the Physical Development and Municipal Services Directorate, explained that the University was originally granted 945.827 acres. He said the northern portion was designated for investment projects, while the southern section was reserved for the Department of Economic Development, housing the Livestock and Poultry Research Centre.

“We have enjoyed peaceful occupation of this land since the acquisition, until 2019 when disputes began to arise following the government’s takeover of a section for the sports complex and the construction of the road linking School Junction to the motorway,” Mr. Boakye stated.

He reaffirmed that the University holds all legal documentation confirming its ownership and condemned the persistent harassment by individuals posing as security operatives.

In response, Mr. Richard Jakpa confirmed that National Security has launched an investigation into the allegations of impersonation and assault. “I am here to make it clear that I represent the National Security Special Operations Unit, and I am here to ascertain the facts surrounding the alleged assaults,” he said.

He assured the University authorities that his office would identify and sanction those responsible for impersonating security officials and disrupting lawful activities on the land.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo expressed gratitude to the National Security team for their swift intervention and reiterated the University’s commitment to safeguarding its property. “The University of Ghana is the bona fide owner of this land, and we will work closely with National Security and government agencies to ensure peaceful occupation,” she affirmed.

Professor Amfo emphasized that securing the Borteyman land is crucial to advancing the University’s housing project, which she described as vital for improving staff welfare and ensuring safety on campus.