By Ghana Insights | Published: March 14, 2025 | Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

Who Is Christian Tetteh Yohunu? Ghana’s Newly Appointed Inspector-General of Police (IGP)

"A tested hand for difficult times" — that’s how insiders describe COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu, the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police (IGP), as President John Mahama reshuffles Ghana’s security leadership at a pivotal national moment.

Replacing outgoing IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, Yohunu steps in with 40 years of hard-won experience, having served in nearly every critical department within the Ghana Police Service (GPS). His appointment signals renewed urgency for police reforms, public trust restoration, and improved law enforcement efficiency.

But who is the man now at the helm of Ghana's security service, and what does his leadership mean for the country?

Christian Tetteh Yohunu at a Glance: A 40-Year Law Enforcement Legacy

Born on December 27, 1965, Yohunu joined the Ghana Police Service as a Lance Corporal on August 1, 1985, rising steadily through the ranks due to his reputation for discipline, strategic thinking, and integrity.

Career Highlights:

• Deputy IGP (Operations) – Appointed in July 2024 under Nana Akufo-Addo, now reaffirmed under Mahama's government.
• Commissioner of Police (COP) – Elevated in January 2016 after a notable anti-crime leadership trajectory.
• Accra Regional Commander (2013-2015) – Managed complex urban security and major police operations.
• Director-General of MTTD & Administration – Pioneered road safety reforms and improved police service logistics.

Academic Credentials:

• Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) graduate.
• University of Ghana – Bachelor’s Degree.
• Executive MBA in Project Management (UPSA) – Equipping him with modern management skills to reform policing in Ghana.

The Problem Ghana Faces: A Police Service at a Crossroads

In recent years, the Ghana Police Service has struggled with public distrust, allegations of brutality, and internal politicization. The outgoing IGP, Dr. Dampare, initiated several reforms, but internal conflicts and political controversies have marred his tenure.

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What Yohunu's Appointment Signals: Reform, Stability, or More Controversy?

While Yohunu’s track record speaks of operational excellence and administrative competence, his 2024 promotion as Deputy IGP faced legal scrutiny, raising eyebrows over alleged political maneuvering to undermine Dampare.

Yet, as the substantive IGP, Yohunu is now uniquely positioned to lead with full authority, facing both immense expectations and sharp public scrutiny.

Top 5 National Priorities for IGP Yohunu

1. Restoring Public Trust in Police

Yohunu must rebuild fractured relationships with citizens, ensuring the GPS operates transparently and without political bias.

2. Curbing Violent Crime and Armed Robbery

With rising urban crime, especially in Accra and Kumasi, Yohunu’s past experience as Accra’s top cop will be crucial in deploying actionable anti-crime strategies.

3. Professionalizing Police Service

From training reforms to internal discipline, Yohunu is expected to clean up police misconduct, instilling ethics and professionalism at every rank.

4. Enhancing Cybercrime & Organized Crime Units

Modern threats require modern policing. Yohunu will need to strengthen units combating cyber fraud, financial crimes, and cross-border syndicates.

5. Community Policing & Public Engagement

Revamping community policing models and engaging civil society will be key to ensuring citizen-inclusive security efforts.

Behind the Badge: Yohunu’s Recognition and National Honors

In 2011, COP Yohunu received Ghana’s Grand Medal — a prestigious national honor recognizing his unwavering fight against violent crimes and operational brilliance.

Quick Fact:

🔹 Did You Know? Yohunu was among a select few top officers who maintained their careers across multiple political regimes, earning cross-party respect — a rare feat in Ghana's politically charged environment.

Conclusion:

Can Ghana's New IGP Live Up to the Hype?

COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu arrives at the most critical moment in Ghana’s police history — tasked with reviving a force battling internal and external crises.

Whether he will emerge as the reformer Ghana desperately needs remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the nation will be watching closely.