The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has made a direct appeal for forgiveness from the people of Bawku, acknowledging the validity of concerns raised regarding the conduct of some police officers stationed in the area. His plea came during a visit to Bawku on Friday, April 11, 2025, where he engaged with the Bawku Naba, the traditional ruler of the area, and other key stakeholders in an effort to de-escalate ongoing tensions and foster peace within the community.
During the meeting, COP Yohuno offered a sincere and open apology on behalf of the Ghana Police Service for any instances of misconduct or wrongdoing committed by police officers in their efforts to maintain law and order in Bawku. Recognizing that human error is inevitable in such demanding roles, the IGP stated, "We are the people to work with you. And as a result of doing this work, one or two people will commit some mistakes. So let us make sure that we correct those mistakes so that we continue to work together." This acknowledgement of potential missteps and the commitment to rectifying them signals a willingness on the part of the police leadership to address the grievances of the community.
Addressing the youth and the wider public directly, the IGP acknowledged the messages conveyed through placards displayed during his visit. He assured the community that the police were taking their concerns seriously and earnestly pleaded for calm and cooperation in the pursuit of peace. COP Yohuno expressed his deep concern over the persistent violence and destruction in the area, saying, "It is my prayer that we work together so that the burning of houses, the burning of police posts and all these things will stop. We are appealing to you through the overlord. We are appealing to him to talk to the youth that they should cease fire." His appeal through the traditional leader underscores the importance of local authority and influence in resolving community conflicts.
Furthermore, the IGP voiced his worry about the growing apprehension among security personnel deployed in Bawku, noting that some officers were reportedly fearful of carrying out their duties due to the prevailing tensions. Despite these challenges, he reassured the public of the unwavering commitment of the police and other security services to establishing and maintaining peace in the troubled area. "By the grace of God, I am coming here to talk to my brothers and sisters, to let them know that the police, the military and other security services here, are here for peace," he affirmed.
In a significant gesture aimed at building trust and fostering greater local involvement in maintaining peace, the IGP announced a commitment to prioritize the youth of Bawku during upcoming police recruitment exercises. He stated, "We assure you that when it comes to recruitment, we’ll give the youth of Bawku priority. A special team will come here to do special recruitment. I know how hardworking people from this area are." This initiative seeks to empower the local population and potentially improve relations between the community and the police force by increasing the representation of Bawku natives within the service.
The IGP also emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, urging residents to report any instances of misconduct or unprofessional behavior by individual police officers. He assured the community that any such reports would be taken seriously and that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken against those found to have acted wrongly. "If any individual commits anything wrong, let us know so that we can pull that person out of the area. Let us know where we are going wrong so we can quickly correct those things," he urged the residents.
Concluding his address, the IGP made a heartfelt plea for peace and understanding, expressing his profound hope for a peaceful night's sleep in Bawku, free from the sounds of gunfire that have plagued the area. "Thank you very much for receiving us, and I hope that if I’m sleeping in Bawku tonight, I will not hear any gunfire. I’m going to test it tonight. If for the next three days I don’t hear any gunfire, then I know you have received my message," he said, his words conveying a deep yearning for an end to the conflict and a return to normalcy in Bawku. His visit and direct engagement with the community and its leaders represent a significant effort by the police leadership to address the root causes of tension and build a foundation for lasting peace through reconciliation and accountability.
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