All 18 individuals who were arrested over the weekend near Mensah Sarbah Hall at the University of Ghana have been released, according to Seidu Iddrisu, Deputy Director of Operations at the university’s Safety and Security Services Directorate.
Speaking in a follow-up interview on Campus Exclusive on Radio Univers, Mr. Iddrisu explained that the arrests were made as a result of unruly behaviour observed during the university’s congregation period—but emphasized that no criminal charges were filed.
“They were released on Sunday evening,” he said. “By law, you cannot detain someone for more than 24 hours unless they are charged. Since there was no destruction or criminal offence, we had no grounds to press charges, so they were granted bail.”
The individuals involved were allegedly part of a group that had gathered without approval and engaged in disruptive conduct. According to Mr. Iddrisu, their actions included nudity and general misconduct, which he described as inappropriate and out of place during such a significant academic event.
“This is a highly recognized university,” he stressed. “People were lining up on the street, going naked — that simply cannot be allowed.”
He clarified that the incident was not a clash between rival halls, as some may have speculated, but rather the result of some individuals flouting university regulations regarding conduct and unauthorized gatherings.
While no one will face criminal charges, Mr. Iddrisu noted that the identities of those arrested were documented, and a report has been compiled. This has been shared with the relevant institutions to allow for possible internal disciplinary actions.
“It’s not over,” he hinted. “The universities involved have been informed, and disciplinary steps may be taken from their end.”
Though the arrests were carried out in what he called a “friendly” manner, Mr. Iddrisu issued a strong warning that future incidents may be met with a firmer response.
“Next time, it will not be a friendly arrest,” he cautioned. “We will go in hard — and we don’t want to reach that point.”
He reminded students and the university community that although Legon is a public institution, it operates under strict rules and policies — including the current suspension of all unsanctioned gatherings.
“You can’t just gather and do whatever you like,” he said. “Even the Jubilee House is a public place, but you can’t walk in there and misbehave. Same applies here.”
Mr. Iddrisu concluded by urging student leaders and groups to take responsibility and ensure all events or gatherings are properly approved by the appropriate university authorities. Failure to do so, he warned, may result in more severe actions from campus security in the future.
