IGP honoured at Accra Metropolitan University, delivers lecture on Police transformation

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D, Honoris Causa) by Accra Metropolitan University on Saturday during its 2025 Convocation Lecture Series.

He marked the occasion by delivering a powerful lecture on the theme “The Evolving Role of the Ghana Police Service in a Modern Democratic Society.”

In his address, the IGP reflected on the transformation of the Ghana Police Service from a colonial-era force into a modern, democratic institution grounded in professionalism, human rights, and public accountability.

He dedicated the honour to the thousands of officers across the country who risk their lives daily to maintain peace and security.

“This recognition affirms that true reward comes not from personal gain, but from service driven by integrity and purpose,” Mr. Yohuno said.

Historical Reflections and Reforms

Tracing the Service’s roots to its colonial origins in 1894, the IGP acknowledged the challenges that plagued its early years — from limited public accountability to political interference.

However, he emphasised that Ghana’s return to constitutional rule in 1992 triggered transformative reforms.

“These reforms helped reposition the Police from a force for regime protection to a service focused on public safety and constitutional order,” he noted.

Key milestones include the establishment of the Police Staff College and Police Public Training School, the introduction of human rights education for recruits, and internal reforms aimed at curbing abuse and corruption.

Innovation and Community Policing

Mr. Yohuno highlighted recent efforts to modernise the Ghana Police Service through technology and citizen engagement.

The introduction of the District Police Information Management System (DPIMS), improved forensic capabilities, and the use of social media and GHPolice TV have strengthened transparency and responsiveness.

He praised community policing as a critical pillar of modern democratic policing, with forums across regions fostering local solutions to crime and improving trust between officers and citizens.

“In the Ashanti Region, community patrols helped cut residential burglaries by 27%. Along Greater Accra’s coast, local collaborations are curbing illegal fishing,” he revealed.

Election Security and Challenges Ahead

The IGP pointed to Ghana’s recent electoral cycles as a litmus test for police neutrality.

He cited the deployment of Election Security Task Forces, CCTV surveillance, and proactive party engagement as instrumental in ensuring peaceful polls.

However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, including cybercrime, urban violence, and limited resources.

He called for greater public-private collaboration, reforms in recruitment and promotions, and improved welfare for officers.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Mr. Yohuno outlined an ambitious plan to make the Ghana Police Service a “SMART, citizen-focused institution.”

 Plans include launching a Real-Time Crime Centre, an AI-powered crime forecasting platform, and a mobile app for real-time citizen engagement.

He also stressed the need for continuous collaboration with academia, civil society, and international partners to tackle transnational threats and build evidence-based policing practices.

Dedication and Gratitude

In closing, the IGP dedicated the honorary degree to all police officers — past and present — who have served with honour and sacrifice.

“To every officer who has stood a post through the night or walked into danger so others may live in peace — this is for you,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic, the Minister for the Interior, the University’s leadership, and his family for their support throughout his career.

“Let this honour not be an end but a call to deepen our service to Ghana. Let us uphold the law not as a tool of fear, but as a protector of freedom and dignity,” he concluded.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith