Chaos at UCC: NSMQ Quarterfinal Between Adisadel, Prempeh, Mfantsipim Postponed Amid Security Lapses
The National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) quarterfinal contest between Adisadel College, Prempeh College, and Mfantsipim School at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has been postponed following chaotic scenes on Thursday evening, with reports pointing to inadequate security arrangements as a key factor.
The event, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. at UCC’s New Examination Centre, descended into disorder as rival school supporters clashed, leading to the suspension of proceedings just minutes before start time.
Videos circulating online show students in school uniforms pushing through barricades, chanting, and throwing objects, forcing organizers to evacuate the stage and delay the contest indefinitely.
Primetime Limited, the NSMQ organizers, confirmed the postponement in a statement: “Due to unforeseen circumstances, the quarterfinal has been rescheduled. A new date will be announced soon.” Sources blame poor crowd control, with only a handful of police officers present despite the high-stakes rivalry among the three powerhouse schools—Adisadel and Mfantsipim from the Central Region, and Prempeh from Ashanti.
UCC security and regional police intervened to disperse the crowd, but no injuries were reported. The incident echoes past NSMQ disruptions, including the 2023 final walkout, prompting calls for better venue management. “Security was woefully inadequate—fans overran the hall,” said a UCC student eyewitness.
The trio advanced from earlier rounds, with Adisadel topping its group and Prempeh/Mfantsipim in a tight contest.
