President John Mahama has officially sworn in COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Inspector-General of Police (IGP) at a brief ceremony held at the Jubilee House on Friday, March 14, 2025.
The event was attended by Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, senior police officials, and other dignitaries.
President Mahama’s Charge to the New IGP
In his address, President Mahama urged IGP Yohuno to lead a police service that earns public trust, describing him as a man of integrity.
“Today marks an important step in our collective commitment to justice, security, and good governance. It is my great honor to swear in our new Inspector-General of Police, a distinguished officer assuming this role at a critical juncture in our nation’s history,” he stated.
The President underscored the vital role of the Ghana Police Service in ensuring national security, maintaining law and order, and protecting citizens’ rights. He emphasized that security is the foundation of national development.
“Without safety and stability, businesses cannot thrive, children cannot attend school peacefully, and our communities cannot prosper. That is why strong leadership in the Ghana Police Service is crucial,” he stressed.
Mahama also highlighted the evolving nature of security threats, calling for a modernized approach to policing.
“Traditional policing methods must evolve to tackle emerging challenges such as violent crime, cybercrime, fraud, and organized crime. Additionally, global security threats—ranging from terrorism to transnational criminal networks—demand strong intelligence capabilities and proactive law enforcement,” he added.
Expectations and Call for Support
The President reminded the new IGP of the high expectations Ghanaians have for the police, urging officers to rally behind their new leader.
“To our new IGP, I encourage you to lead with vision, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to duty. Leadership is not just about authority; it is about service and inspiring professionalism and accountability within the force,” he stated.
He noted that public confidence in the police would be the true measure of IGP Yohuno’s leadership, not just crime statistics.
“As you assume this immense responsibility, know that you have my full support and that of my administration,” he assured.
Commendation for Outgoing IGP
President Mahama also took the opportunity to commend outgoing IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for his dedication and contributions to the transformation of the police service.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the outgoing IGP. His dedication to law enforcement and national security will not be forgotten. We wish him well in his future endeavors,” he said.
He further urged police personnel to give their full cooperation to their new leader, acknowledging their role as the backbone of national security.
COP Yohuno’s Pledge
In his remarks, COP Yohuno expressed gratitude to President Mahama for the confidence reposed in him and vowed to uphold the highest standards of service.
“I will lead in alignment with your resetting agenda. Thank you for your trust. I am honored and eager to embark on this new chapter in my policing career. I look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to create a safer and more secure Ghana,” he stated.
He also commended his predecessor, Dr. Dampare, for his leadership and transformation efforts over the years.
Background
COP Yohuno succeeds Dr. Dampare, who was appointed as Ghana’s youngest IGP on August 1, 2021, and relieved of his duties on March 13, 2025. Yohuno becomes Ghana’s 24th IGP since independence. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Deputy IGP in charge of operations at the Ghana Police Service.
