Obuasi SHTS Scandal: Manasseh Documentary Uncovers Alleged Abuse, Cover-Ups and Political Interference
Obuasi SHTS Scandal: Manasseh Documentary Uncovers Alleged Abuse, Cover-Ups and Political Interference
An investigative documentary by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has detailed allegations of sexual abuse, threats and intimidation involving the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Zakaria Abdulai, alongside questions about how complaints against him were handled by school authorities and local leaders.
The documentary, titled *Inside the Dreaded Headmaster’s Bungalow*, features accounts from several female students who allege that they were lured to the headmaster’s official residence under the pretext of running errands and subsequently subjected to sexual abuse.
According to the investigation, the alleged incidents occurred after Mr Abdulai assumed office in April 2025. The students, identified as Victims A to E in the documentary, described alleged forced sexual acts, threats and attempts to prevent them from speaking about their experiences.
The investigation also raises concerns about the handling of complaints submitted by students and their families. It indicates that reports were allegedly made to house mistresses, school management and local officials, but questions remain about the actions taken in response.
Some staff members were accused of ignoring or suppressing complaints, while certain parents were allegedly pressured to withdraw their cases, according to the documentary.
The findings have brought renewed attention to the role of school authorities and other institutions responsible for protecting students and responding to allegations of misconduct.
The documentary further examines possible political interference in the matter, noting that Mr Abdulai also holds the position of constituency secretary within the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Manasseh’s investigation suggests that the headmaster’s political connections may have complicated efforts to hold him accountable. Several local political figures reportedly acknowledged holding meetings to discuss the controversy but denied protecting him from scrutiny.
The situation reportedly intensified in August 2026, when student protests erupted over the allegations. The documentary also reports the discovery of a fetus buried on the school grounds, an incident that heightened tensions and preceded the temporary closure of the institution.
The closure disrupted academic activities and raised concerns about the welfare and education of students caught up in the controversy.
At the time covered by the documentary, the case was under investigation by the Bekwai Police. However, some alleged victims and their relatives expressed frustration over the pace of the process and fears that the headmaster’s position and connections could prevent justice from being served.
The documentary has intensified public scrutiny of the allegations and the response of the institutions and individuals who were reportedly informed about them.
The allegations against Mr Abdulai remain subject to investigation, and the claims presented in the documentary have not, by themselves, established criminal liability.
