A delegation representing the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari, has ordered the closure of the offices at St. Vicente Nursing College following a dispute over the selection of a new principal. The decision stems from the college board’s refusal to appoint the candidate recommended by the Overlord after the previous principal’s retirement.
The conflict escalated when the board chose a principal who was not from the Dagbon kingdom, despite Yaa Naa Abukari’s suggestion to select a local candidate. The Registrar of the Dagbon Traditional Council, Alhassan Abdul Fataw, directed staff and management to vacate the premises and lock the offices indefinitely.
Fataw expressed that the board’s actions were a direct affront to the Overlord’s authority and a sign of disrespect toward the traditional leadership. He emphasized the historical context, pointing out that no Dagomba has ever been appointed as the college’s principal since its inception.
“The King of Dagbon was not informed about the vacancy until he learned about the interviews through other channels,” Fataw stated. “The King then invited the board and suggested that the new principal should reflect the local community to dispel any notion of bias against the indigenes. Despite agreeing to this at the palace, the board appointed someone from outside the kingdom.”
The situation prompted the youth of Yendi to rally together, demanding the closure of the college until a resolution is reached. They insist on finding an amicable solution that respects the Overlord’s directive and the interests of the local community.
As the standoff continues, the Dagbon Traditional Council and the college board are expected to engage in discussions to resolve the dispute and ensure that the institution’s leadership reflects the community it serves.