The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has called for forgiveness from the people of Bawku, acknowledging concerns about the conduct of the police in the area and appealing for peace amid ongoing tensions.
During a visit to Bawku on Friday, April 11, the IGP met with the Bawku Naba and other stakeholders, where he offered an open apology for any wrongdoing by the police in their efforts to maintain law and order.
“We are the people to work with you. And as a result of doing this work, one or two people will commit some mistakes,” COP Yohuno said. “So let us make sure that we correct those mistakes so that we continue to work together.”
Addressing the youth and the general public directly, the IGP acknowledged the messages displayed on placards and assured them that the police were taking their concerns seriously. He pleaded for calm and cooperation.
“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,” he said.
COP Yohuno expressed concern over the growing fear among security personnel stationed in the area and noted that some were afraid to carry out their duties. However, he reassured the public of the police’s commitment to peace.
“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 said.
The IGP also promised that the security services would prioritise the youth of Bawku during recruitment exercises as part of efforts to build trust and promote local involvement in maintaining peace.
“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,” he stated.
Calling for transparency, he asked residents to report any wrongdoing by individual officers, assuring that appropriate action would be taken.
“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 IGP concluded with a heartfelt request for peace and understanding, saying he hoped to sleep peacefully in Bawku without hearing gunfire.
“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.
