Okidi Patrick, Alebtong – The territorial police in Alebtong District have sent students of Akii-Bua SSS home following an intended strike.
According to the police PRO of the North Kyoga Region, SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, it is alleged that on June 4, 2024, at around 03:00 hours, students of Akii-Bua SSS began a strike for unknown reasons. The school administration managed to contain the situation, but the next day, June 5, 2024, the unrest continued.
The headteacher reported to Abako police station, and the DPC of Alebtong was notified. The DPC of Alebtong immediately came with his team and talked to the students and staff. However, the students raised the issue that they did not want the headteacher and the Director of Studies.
On June 7, 2024, unknown suspects gained access to the kitchen, and the food store was closed by blocking the padlocks with super glue. Police were informed, and a team led by the OC Station of Alebtong District responded, opened the store and kitchen, and prepared food. However, the students refused to eat and also to attend classes.
There were many threatening writings against the headteacher and DOS, which were recovered from the windows. Statements of the relevant witnesses were recorded. Generally, the students were violent, as they refused to eat food the whole day and did not attend classes, indicating negative intentions to rebel against the school authority.
To avoid bigger challenges, as it is the police’s mandate to protect lives and property, we took a decision in consultation with higher authorities and asked students to vacate the school compound until further notice. Preliminary findings indicate external factors; there may be some individuals or groups using students to remove the headteacher and DOS.
The police have appealed to all stakeholders, such as the DEO, LCV, BOG, PTA, Old Students Association, and any other person who values the school, to advocate for the best solutions to resolve this matter. Students must also understand that they will be the losers in the end.
