A Welcome Assessment for the New IGP: A Call for Justice and Accountability

The appointment of COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP) marks a pivotal moment for Ghana’s security landscape. It presents an opportunity to address unresolved cases, restore public trust, and set a benchmark for accountability and professionalism within the Ghana Police Service. As Yohuno assumes office, the nation looks to him to tackle some of the most pressing and unresolved crimes that have marred the reputation of the police force and shaken public confidence.

Unresolved Crimes: A Test of Leadership

The new IGP inherits a legacy of unsolved cases that demand immediate attention. These cases are not just about justice for the victims and their families—they are about restoring the integrity of the Ghana Police Service. Among the most notable are:

1. Bullion Van Robberies and the Death of Emmanuel Osei

- The tragic killing of young officer Emmanuel Osei during a bullion van robbery, allegedly orchestrated by his own colleagues, remains a dark stain on the police force. The mysterious deaths of officers arrested in connection with these crimes have raised serious questions about transparency and accountability.

2. Takoradi Missing Girls
- The unresolved kidnapping and deaths of four young girls in Takoradi continue to haunt the nation. Families and the public demand clarity and closure, as the case remains shrouded in controversy.

3. Ahmed Hussein-Suale’s Murder

- The assassination of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale in 2019 remains unsolved, despite widespread public and international attention. This case is a litmus test for the police’s ability to protect press freedom and ensure justice.

4. Ayawaso West Wuogon By-Election Violence

- The violence during the 2019 by-election, involving masked men believed to be national security operatives, has yet to see significant prosecutions. This case highlights the need for accountability in politically charged incidents.

5. Electoral Violence and Killings

- The deaths of unarmed civilians during the 2020 general elections remain unresolved, raising concerns about the use of excessive force by security personnel.

6. Other High-Profile Cases
- The murders of J.B. Danquah-Adu, Fennec Okyere, and Prof. Emmanuel Yaw Benneh, among others, continue to erode public confidence in the police’s ability to solve complex crimes.

Neglect of High-Profile Cases by Former IGPs

Over the years, successive IGPs have struggled to resolve these high-profile cases, leading to public frustration and a perception of institutional inefficiency. While Dr. George Akuffo Dampare’s tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the police force and improve community engagement, his inability to resolve these cases may have contributed to his removal. Critics argue that the unresolved cases under his leadership, coupled with internal challenges such as allegations of corruption and inefficiency, created a perception of stagnation within the service. Additionally, political dynamics and the need for "fresh leadership" to drive reforms were cited as factors influencing his dismissal.

A Benchmark for Accountability
To regain public trust and restore the image of the Ghana Police Service, IGP Yohuno must prioritize the resolution of these cases. This requires:

- Reopening Investigations: Thoroughly reviewing evidence and ensuring transparency in the investigative process.

- Engaging Independent Oversight: Collaborating with independent bodies to ensure impartiality and accountability.

- Strengthening Internal Reforms: Addressing systemic issues within the police force, including corruption and inefficiency.

- Building Public Confidence: Regularly updating the public on progress and demonstrating a commitment to justice.

A Legacy of Justice
The new IGP has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by addressing these unresolved cases and setting a new standard for leadership within the Ghana Police Service. This is not just about solving crimes—it is about rebuilding the foundation of trust between the police and the public. As the nation watches, the IGP’s actions will define his tenure and shape the future of policing in Ghana.

A Strong Message to President John Dramani Mahama

President Mahama’s initiative on March 13, 2023, where CEOs of State-Owned Enterprises were required to sign performance contracts, set a powerful precedent for accountability and measurable leadership. This same principle could be extended to the appointment of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other security chiefs. By instituting performance contracts for these critical roles, tied to clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as crime reduction, public trust enhancement, and institutional reforms, the government can ensure that security leadership is both accountable and results-driven. Such a move would not only depoliticize the role of the IGP but also reinforce public confidence in Ghana’s security institutions, aligning them with the broader resetting agenda for governance and national development. This approach would solidify Mahama’s legacy as a leader committed to transparency and transformative governance.

A New Chapter Under Yohuno
As IGP Yohuno assumes office, he faces the monumental task of addressing these unresolved cases and rebuilding public trust. His extensive experience and reputation for operational excellence position him as a capable leader to spearhead reforms. However, his success will depend on his ability to prioritize transparency, accountability, and systemic change within the Ghana Police Service.

The public will be watching closely, and Yohuno’s tenure will be judged not only by his ability to resolve these cases but also by his commitment to restoring the integrity and professionalism of the police force. This is a defining moment for Ghana’s security landscape, and the new IGP has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy of justice and accountability.

Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
024-414-0626
[email protected]
14th March 2025
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