The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has called for an independent investigation into the death of teacher Abu Seidu, who died on September 16, 2026, after an encounter with police personnel at Gindabour in the Savannah Region. GNAT's Northern Regional executives stated that the circumstances surrounding Mr. Seidu's death are unclear and require an impartial probe. The union emphasized that the Ghana Police Service should not lead the investigation, as it involves their own personnel.
Mr. Seidu, a professional teacher at Gindabour D/A Primary School in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District, died under unclear circumstances. The Police Service reported that officers on patrol encountered a motorbike rider who diverted into the bush upon seeing the police vehicle. The officers found him unconscious and attempted to transport him to a hospital, but he died on the way. However, community accounts have raised questions about the events leading to Mr. Seidu's death.
GNAT argued that any death occurring after an encounter between a citizen and law-enforcement officers must be investigated in a manner that is "independent, impartial, transparent and credible enough to command public confidence." The union demands that the autopsy findings on Mr. Seidu be incorporated into the independent investigation and that the outcome be communicated transparently to his family and the public.
The bodies of Mr. Seidu and General Constable Redeemer Owusu, who was later killed in a mob attack, were taken for preservation and autopsy. GNAT is also calling for a separate investigation into the death of Constable Owusu, while condemning mob justice, vigilantism, and the unlawful killing of any person. The union emphasized that justice for both Mr. Seidu and Constable Owusu must be pursued without prejudice.
The association further called for an independent inquiry into allegations of vandalism, destruction of property, assault, and intimidation during subsequent security operations in Gindabour. GNAT stressed that any wrongdoing established through such an inquiry must attract accountability, while restoring order should not result in the punishment of an entire community.
GNAT's call for an independent investigation follows conflicting accounts of what led to Mr. Seidu's death. The union's demands aim to ensure that the truth is established and that justice is served. The incident has sparked concerns about police-community relations and the need for accountability in law enforcement.
The Ghana National Association of Teachers remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of its members, while promoting a culture of accountability and transparency in the country's education and law enforcement sectors. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders to address the complex issues surrounding police-community relations.
Key points
- GNAT calls for independent probe into teacher's death
- Union demands impartial investigation into Abu Seidu's death
- Separate investigation into Constable Owusu's death also demanded
