GNAT Orders Teachers to Flee Garu After Fatal Shooting of Headteacher

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has instructed all teachers in the Garu District of the Upper East Region to immediately withdraw from classrooms and relocate for their safety. This directive follows the tragic shooting and death of a headteacher, Yahaya Bukari, along with three others on Monday.

Speaking on Ezra Adekyee, GNAT’s National President, Rev. Isaac Owusu, described the incident as “heart-wrenching” and condemned the persistent violence in parts of the region, particularly in Garu, Bunkpurugu, and Bawku.

“When we heard the news about the shooting, we were really shaken. We don’t understand why our brothers and sisters in these areas cannot prioritise peace. Sadly, we don’t see what the government is doing to ensure lasting peace,” he said.

Rev. Owusu cited the Labour Act, explaining that employers are legally obligated to ensure the safety of their workers.

“Section 118 mandates the employer to ensure the safety of employees. If the environment becomes unsafe, Section 119 gives employees the right to vacate for their own safety,” he noted.

Given the ongoing insecurity in Garu, GNAT stated it cannot guarantee the safety of teachers and has therefore directed all educators in the district to leave immediately.

“The withdrawal applies to all schools across the district, not just Garu D/A School. We are asking teachers to flee for their lives,” Rev. Owusu declared.

The slain headteacher, Mr. Yahaya Bukari, who also served as GNAT’s District Treasurer and supervised over 1,000 members, was hailed as a hero who died protecting his pupils.

“He sacrificed his life for the children. Without his bravery, many more pupils might have been killed,” Rev. Owusu said solemnly.

He added that Mr. Bukari left behind a wife and three children, urging the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education to announce immediate support measures for the bereaved family.

“It is painful that a teacher can be killed in broad daylight while serving the nation. Death is inevitable, but this was preventable,” he lamented.

Rev. Owusu also appealed to President John Mahama to ensure justice for the victims and their families, calling for swift investigations and sustainable peace in the affected areas.