Adansi Development Association demands probe into alleged sexual assault at Obuasi SHTS

The Adansi Development Association (ADA), a non-profit organisation committed to the development and welfare of Adansi, has expressed concern over allegations of sexual abuse involving the Headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Zakaria Abdulai, and some female students.

In a press statement addressed to the editor of this portal, the Association described the allegations as serious and disturbing, stressing that such conduct would be incompatible with the moral and professional standards expected of individuals entrusted with the care and protection of children.

While emphasising that the allegations remain unproven and that the principle of innocent until proven guilty must be respected, the ADA outlined its position on the matter.

The Association expressed solidarity with the students and called for immediate psychological support, counselling and protection for all alleged victims to prevent stigmatisation, intimidation or victimisation.

It also commended the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Education Service (GES), the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) and other relevant authorities for initiating investigations, urging them to ensure that the process is thorough, impartial and transparent.

Given the seriousness of the allegations and the concern they have generated across Obuasi and the wider Adansi area, the ADA called on the investigative bodies to expedite their work.

“Justice delayed, they say, is justice denied. The perpetrators, if found culpable, must be brought to book as soon as possible in accordance with the laws of Ghana.”

The Association further appealed to parents, students, old students and the general public to remain calm and allow the relevant institutions to conduct their investigations without interference.

It maintained that it would not tolerate any conduct that endangers children or damages the reputation of educational institutions in Adansi.

“Education must be a safe haven, not a place of fear. We assure the investigators of our fullest cooperation,” the statement said.

Background to the allegations
The controversy involves the Headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, Zakaria Abdulai, who has been accused of sexually abusing female students. Media reports have put the number of alleged victims at 19.

Mr Abdulai has denied the allegations and indicated his intention to pursue all lawful avenues to clear his name. The allegations have not been tested in court.

The matter came to public attention after a complaint was lodged with the police on August 4, 2026. The headmaster was subsequently arrested and granted police inquiry bail. He is currently at home.

The police have indicated that the docket relating to the complaint has been forwarded to the Attorney-General for advice.

On October 13, 2026, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu directed the suspension of the headmaster and referred the criminal allegations to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. The GES interdicted him the following day, October 14.

The Ministry of Gender and the CID are also involved in efforts to address the matter.

On Friday, November 6, 2026, the NPP Women's Wing organised a demonstration in Obuasi under the banner “Justice For Our Girls”, demanding the arrest and prosecution of the headmaster if investigations establish his culpability.

Meanwhile, the GES has clarified that Mr Abdulai has not been cleared of the allegations. Its Public Relations Officer, Daniel Fenyi, said the Disciplinary Committee investigating the matter had been granted an additional 7 working days to complete its work.

The committee, which was initially expected to submit its findings on Wednesday, November 4, is now expected to engage all the alleged victims by November 11 before presenting its report to the GES Council.