Police were not taking bribes during Dampare’s tenure but they are now doing it under IGP Yohonu - Dr. Palgrave Boakye

Lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, (UPSA), Dr. Palgrave Boakye Danquah, has raised strong concerns about what he describes as a sharp decline in police professionalism under the current Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Cop John Y. Yohonu.

According to him, during the tenure of former IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, police officers were widely commended for discipline and integrity, particularly on the roads where incidents of extortion and bribery drastically reduced. He argued that the situation has reversed in recent months, with many commuters reportedly encountering officers who now openly demand money before allowing vehicles to move.

Dr. Danquah further criticized what he called an “unfortunate” decision by President John Dramani Mahama to extend the tenure of IGP Yohonu by two additional years, despite his scheduled retirement in December. He insisted that in a crucial sector such as nation’s security performance, not political convenience should determine leadership continuity.

To him, the resurgence of petty corruption among police personnel is a clear indication that the service is backsliding and requires urgent intervention rather than an extension of the current command structure.

He cautioned that if the trend is not addressed, public trust in the Ghana Police Service could erode significantly, undoing the gains made under previous leadership. Dr. Danquah urged the President to re-evaluate the extension and consider appointing an IGP whose leadership style aligns with discipline, innovation, and citizen confidence.