IGP assures neutrality and professionalism in Bawku crisis

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reassured the people of Bawku, including the Bawku Naba and other key stakeholders, of the Ghana Police Service’s unwavering commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and peacebuilding in the volatile area.
His assurance came during a working visit to the Upper East town following violent clashes that resulted in the death of a civilian, injuries to security officers, and destruction of property.

A visit to calm the storm
The IGP’s high-level visit was a direct response to escalating tensions that began on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, amid the long-standing Bawku chieftaincy conflict.
What started as a demand by one faction for women from the opposing side to vacate a local market quickly spiraled into violence when the police intervened.
The resulting confrontation led to exchanges of gunfire between youth and law enforcement, tragically claiming the life of Fuseini Iddrisu and injuring others, including a police officer.
Angered by the police’s intervention, some youth reportedly launched coordinated attacks on police facilities, including setting a barracks ablaze and burning a police vehicle.
The private residences of the Divisional Police Commander and two other officers were also targeted.
The following day, residences of two Members of Parliament—Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga and Pusiga MP Hajia Laadi Ayii Ayamba—were also attacked by irate youth.

IGP calls for forgiveness and trust
In a meeting with the Bawku Naba, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, and community leaders, COP Yohuno apologized on behalf of the police for any lapses in judgment or errors in the handling of the situation.

“Your Royal Highness, we are saying that where we have gone wrong in the course of the discharge of our duties, we plead with you to forgive us,” the IGP said.
“As human as we are, we may falter. Please continue to accept us as your children who have come here to make sure that Bawku returns to its old glory.”
He encouraged the community to report any misconduct by security personnel directly to his office, reinforcing that the service is open to scrutiny and accountability in its mission to ensure peace.

Renewed commitment to neutrality
Emphasizing neutrality as a central tenet of police operations in Bawku, the IGP stated, “We have always spoken to our men to be extremely neutral in the discharge of their duties, and it is our intention to remain so to ensure that the people we seek peace for will have the peace they desire.”
The IGP also used the platform to call on the youth of Bawku to put down their arms and embrace dialogue and peace.
“You are our future, and your energy must be used to build, not destroy,” he said, appealing to them to cooperate with the police to restore normalcy.

Community engagement and site assessments
During his visit, the IGP and his investigative team toured several key locations including Kusasa and Garu, where property damage was assessed.
The team also visited the Police Training School in Nangode to engage with instructors and officers stationed in the area.
COP Yohuno paid special attention to the victims of the recent clashes, offering words of comfort and support.
He pledged a renewed effort to address the root causes of the conflict and to build trust between law enforcement and the local community.

Call for justice and collaboration
While welcoming the IGP’s visit, the Bawku Naba emphasized the need for justice and fairness in the operations of the police.
He called for greater collaboration and mutual respect to ensure lasting peace in the area.
Community members and traditional leaders echoed this sentiment, expressing appreciation for the IGP’s visit but stressing the need for long-term solutions to the recurring violence.

A plea for peace and accountability
The IGP’s visit marks a significant step toward de-escalation in Bawku, a town long plagued by ethno-political conflict.
His message was clear: the Ghana Police Service is committed to restoring peace, but it cannot do so without the active support and cooperation of the community.
By promising neutrality, transparency, and reform, the IGP has opened the door for renewed trust.
The challenge now lies in sustaining these efforts and ensuring that peace, once restored, is maintained.