Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has revealed that he ignored intelligence reports advising him against traveling to Bawku amid heightened violence, saying he could not abandon his officers who were under threat.
Speaking to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on May 10 during ongoing peace mediation efforts, the IGP recounted the urgency of the situation that led to his decision.
“Recently, I visited Bawku when our personnel came under serious attack. There were threats of further violence, and when I arrived, the town was literally in flames,” Yohuno said. “The accommodation where our officers were staying had been set ablaze. That compelled me to rush to the scene.”
According to the IGP, while traveling to the conflict zone, intelligence gathered in Bolgatanga indicated it was unsafe to proceed. However, he insisted on continuing.
“When I got to Bolga, the briefing I received suggested it would be too dangerous to go further. But I asked myself — if my men are already trapped in Bawku, how can I stay behind? What would I tell my colleagues? So I continued with my team,” he said.
Once in Bawku, Yohuno engaged with local traditional leaders, including the Bawku Naba, and called for national healing.
“We had a conversation with the Bawku Naba and agreed to engage his people in dialogue. As security officers, we may have made mistakes in the line of duty. That’s why I’m calling for forgiveness—national forgiveness—so that peace can return.”
The IGP expressed deep appreciation to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his willingness to intervene in the long-running conflict.
“Your Majesty, when we heard of your plans to step in and help mediate the Bawku crisis, it gave us hope. The military, police, and other security forces were greatly relieved. Your support means a lot to us.”
The Asantehene’s involvement is part of a broader national effort to resolve the ongoing unrest in Bawku, a region that has been plagued by recurring ethnic and chieftaincy-related tensions for years.
