The Executive Director of the Africa Center for Security and Counterterrorism, Emmanuel Kotin, has weighed in on the recent dismissal of Ghana’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), stating that while the decision was within the president’s prerogative, the reactions from police personnel suggest deep-seated grievances.
Speaking on 3FM in an interview with Johnny Hughes, Kotin emphasized that appointing and removing an IGP is standard practice, making it difficult to label the action as either good or bad. However, he expressed surprise at the widespread celebrations among officers following the dismissal.
“What is shocking is the kind of jubilation among police personnel. My checks this morning at several police stations show officers dressed in white, abandoning their uniforms in open celebration. That says a lot,” he noted.
According to Kotin, this reaction highlights internal issues within the police service that may have worsened under the former IGP. He pointed out concerns regarding administration, decision-making, and policies that appeared to sideline both officers and the general public.
He particularly criticized the lack of publicly available crime statistics under the former IGP’s leadership, arguing that such data is crucial for national security planning.
“Every country relies on crime statistics to formulate policies, yet under his tenure, that critical aspect was neglected,” he stated.
Another major issue, Kotin revealed, was the restructuring of the police cyber unit. He lamented the removal of its key leader, who had worked to secure international funding to strengthen cybersecurity measures.
“Cyber threats are some of the biggest risks to any country today, and yet the very people working to protect us in that field were sidelined.”
Additionally, Kotin raised concerns about the alleged extrajudicial killings that occurred under the IGP’s watch. He referenced a parliamentary hearing where officers were willing to testify on the matter but noted that the case was never fully pursued.
He concluded that while the removal of the IGP was necessary to restore trust and efficiency within the service, the new leadership has a lot to rectify.
“The institution itself will correct its course, but the signs of rebellion we saw from within are unheard of in a regimented institution like the police.”
Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!
