The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohonu, has disclosed that he chose to disregard security intelligence warning him against entering Bawku during a recent escalation in violence, citing his duty to support officers who were under siege.
Speaking during a meeting with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, on May 10, 2025, the IGP recounted the critical situation that compelled his high-risk visit to the troubled town. His address was part of broader discussions aimed at fostering peace in the conflict-prone area.
“Recently, I visited Bawku when our officers were under heavy attack. Their lives were in serious danger. When I arrived, the town was literally in flames. The facilities housing our personnel had been set ablaze,” IGP Yohonu revealed.
He explained that while travelling to Bawku, he received intelligence in Bolgatanga advising against moving forward due to heightened threats. Despite the warning, he decided to proceed.
“When I got to Bolga, the intelligence report I received was clear — it was too risky to continue. But I asked myself, how could I stop there when my men were already in danger? I couldn’t justify turning back, so I moved forward with my team,” he said.
The IGP noted that during his time in Bawku, he met with the Bawku Naba and appealed for dialogue and forgiveness to mend relations between the community and the security services.
“We agreed that there must be communication with his people to help restore peace. As security officers, we may have erred in the line of duty, but we ask for national forgiveness,” he stated.
IGP Yohonu commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his commitment to aiding peace-building efforts in Bawku, adding that the Asantehene’s planned intervention had lifted the spirits of security forces on the ground.
“The news of your intention to intervene brought a huge sense of relief to the police, military, and all security agencies involved. We are grateful for your leadership,” he said.
Otumfuo’s peace initiative is part of a national effort to bring lasting calm to Bawku, a town long affected by ethnic tensions and chieftaincy disputes.
