Mahama’s inauguration: Shameful act just to catch the eyes of NDC leadership — ACP Agordzo slams IGP for directing traffic

ACP Agordzo [left] and IGP Dampare

Retired senior police officer ACP Benjamin Agordzo has criticized Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for what he describes as a “shameful display” of public theatrics during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on January 7, 2025.

The IGP, en route to the ceremony at Black Star Square, was seen stepping out of his vehicle to assist with traffic management, despite having deployed officers to handle the task.

While the gesture was lauded by some for showcasing leadership, others, including Agordzo and the Forum for Development and Accountable Governance (FDAG), viewed it as a calculated political move.

In a statement released on January 8, 2025, FDAG described Dampare’s actions as a self-serving “public stunt,” aimed at securing favor with the newly elected National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.

“This disgraceful episode is not only an attempt to court public favor but also a poorly disguised effort to launch a reappointment campaign for himself. Instead of focusing on the critical task of securing the nation and addressing the escalating crime rates under his watch, the IGP has sunk to the depths of political opportunism,” the statement read.

FDAG further calls for a leadership change in the police service, asserting that Dampare’s “populist attempt through cheap, staged performances” highlighted his inability to deliver effective solutions to the country’s security challenges.

Echoing FDAG’s sentiments, ACP Agordzo accused Dampare of engaging in “eye service” to gain the attention of NDC leadership and secure his position.

In a Facebook post dated January 8, 2025, Agordzo argued that the IGP’s actions were a deliberate attempt to distract from the failures of the police service under his leadership.

“Those who have eyes can always see what Dampare is about. This kind of ‘eye service,’ aimed at catching the eyes of NDC leadership, is shameful. The IGP is simply acting desperately to keep his office. Let’s see how it goes,” Agordzo wrote.