Frank Annoh-Dompreh And IGP, Yohuno
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has come under barrage of attacks following his proposal to recruit combatants in the Bawku conflict into the Police Service.
The IGP’s controversial pledge to prioritize local youth — including alleged militants — for recruitment into the Ghana Police Service if they lay down their arms has triggered a strong backlash from the Minority in Parliament.
Leading the charge, Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, condemned the statement as not only inappropriate but also potentially dangerous.
Addressing a press conference in Parliament, Annoh-Dompreh explained that “The IGP’s statement in Bawku was unfortunate”.
“Suggesting that laying down arms would make individuals eligible for police recruitment is inappropriate and implies that others might also engage in violence for the same reason.”
Background
Bawku has for years been the epicenter of intermittent clashes, rooted in protracted chieftaincy disputes and ethnic tensions.
The latest violence escalated following an attack on the residence of MP Mahama Ayariga, which was partially set ablaze by suspected local militants. In a bid to de-escalate tensions, the IGP made a bold overture to the youth of the area after dashing to the trouble spot.
“We assure you that when it comes to recruitment, we’ll give the youth of Bawku priority,” said Yohuno during his address.
“A special team will come here to do special recruitment. I know how hardworking people from this area are.”
He added, “Let them know that the police, the military, and other security services are here for peace.”
Reactions
But Annoh-Dompreh argued that such a statement coming from the Chief Constable carries dangerous implications.
“It is clearly an unfortunate statement. You know, it’s most, most unfortunate to say that if you lay down your arms, you’ll be considered for recruitment. It’s out of place,” he said.
He questioned the message it sends to other regions plagued by unrest. “It doesn’t mean that people from other parts of the country would also instigate fights… and then when they lay down their arms, they’ll be considered for recruitment into the school. Which is most unfortunate.”
The Minority Chief Whip stressed that the IGP, being newly appointed, should weigh his public utterances more carefully.
“This is purported to be his major public statement ever since he was appointed. And maybe he made that statement just on the spell of it… but the ramifications of that statement are so critical.”
Frank Annoh-Dompreh turned his fire toward the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing them of failing to live up to their own promises.
“All of you were living witnesses to how our colleagues in the Minority exploited this Bawku conflict. We are showing responsibility. We won’t come and speak the way they spoke.”
He continued: “They said any time they are in power, there is peace in Bawku. Now they are in power. They have been in power for more than three months, and the conflict is getting out of hand. Lives are being lost. Properties are being destroyed. The NDC government must show responsibility.”
Annoh-Dompreh emphasized that the Minority would maintain pressure on the government to act.
“We will sustain our interest until there is lasting peace in Bawku… Our interest is peace and security, protection of property and lives. That is what is key to us.”
A Controversial Gamble
The IGP’s initiative, described by some as a pragmatic attempt to reintegrate alienated youth and reduce violence, is being viewed by others as a reckless move that may incentivize armed rebellion.
In an emotional appeal during his Bawku address, the IGP sought forgiveness from residents for previous security lapses.
“We are the people to work with you… Forgive us and let us know where we have gone wrong and we will correct it.”
He also admitted that recent tensions have eroded police morale. “The police were scared to do their work after tensions rose,” he said.
“If any individual commits anything wrong, let us know so that we can pull that person out of the area.”
Ending his visit with a personal plea, he said, “If for the next three days I don’t hear any gunfire, then I know you have received my message.”
–BY Daniel Bampoe
