IGP Reaffirms Police Neutrality in Bawku Conflict Amid Rising Tensions
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has reassured the Bawku Naba and the people of Bawku that the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies will remain strictly neutral and professional in their handling of the ongoing conflict in the area. His assurance came during a working visit following violent incidents that resulted in the death of a civilian, injuries to security personnel, and destruction of property.
Addressing key stakeholders including traditional leaders, youth groups, and opinion leaders, the IGP emphasized that the police have no interest in taking sides in the chieftaincy conflict. He stressed that the focus of the security services is to uphold the law, protect lives, and restore order. “We have always instructed our officers to act with complete neutrality in the discharge of their duties,” the IGP stated. “It is our intention to maintain this stance to help achieve lasting peace for the people of Bawku.”
In his interaction with the Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the IGP expressed regret over any possible missteps by security personnel during their operations. He offered an apology on behalf of the service, acknowledging that mistakes may have occurred in the process of law enforcement. “Your royal highness, we plead for forgiveness where our personnel may have gone wrong. As a human institution, we are not perfect, and we ask the people of Bawku to accept us as their own who are here to restore peace,” he said.
The IGP encouraged residents to report any misconduct by security personnel to his office to ensure such issues are addressed promptly and fairly. He also appealed to the youth to put down their arms and work in partnership with the police to achieve peace.
The visit followed a violent episode on April 9, 2025, when tensions escalated after a faction in the conflict reportedly asked market women from the opposing side to leave. The police intervened, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the death of a civilian and injuries to others, including a police officer.
The unrest continued as angry youth attacked and set fire to a police barracks and vehicle, forcing the evacuation of officers. The private homes of the Divisional Police Commander and two other officers were also targeted. On the following day, the homes of Members of Parliament Mahama Ayariga and Hajia Laadi Ayii Ayamba were attacked.
In response, the Bawku Naba expressed appreciation for the IGP’s visit and called for fairness, justice, and deeper collaboration between the community and the police to help restore peace in the troubled area.
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