Recent appointments within the Ghana Police Service have sparked widespread speculation on social media. Many users suggest that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s decision to name Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Deputy Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in charge of Operations is part of a plan to oust the current IGP, Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare.

Social media commentators have raised concerns that the appointment may be politically motivated, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 elections.

“He Dey come remove Dampare be dat Mother serpent of corruption,” one user remarked, while others expressed similar sentiments, suggesting that the appointment of COP Yohuno is a calculated move by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to secure electoral advantages.

“Looks like the ploy to oust Dampare has just begun,” warned another user.

“The appointment of Yahonu deputy as IGP is NOT a coincidence. It is a calculated move by Bawumia and the NPP to oust the highly capable Dampare from office. This is not a democracy, it’s a political agenda.”

“IGP Dampare can’t be sacked directly else it will be too obvious. Instead, they create a position and appoint a total new name there. Guess who the chairman of the police council is? First the courts, then the EC laptops, and now the police. These people are bent on breaking the 8,” another said.

“Deputy IGP? Dampare is too honest for them.”

“It’s funny how Dampare got a Deputy all of a sudden.”

In an official statement released on July 17, 2024, the presidency clarified that COP Yohuno’s appointment followed recommendations from the Police Council.

The statement noted, “The President has appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the new Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, acknowledging his exceptional credentials and dedication to duty.”

COP Yohuno has a distinguished career in law enforcement spanning over thirty years. Before his current appointment, he served as the Director-General in charge of Administration within the Ghana Police Service.

“Deputy IGP too dey? Nana Addo just want sack Dampare k3k3,” commented one user.

“Ploy to oust Dampare,” remarked another.

“Looks like the ploy to oust Dampare has just begun… before you know it they would ask him to step aside for Yohunor to take over … Dangerous times ahead, everyone has to open their eyes widely,” warned Cyril Jay Klevs.

“The NPP is gradually executing their plans of rigging the elections. Since when did Ghana have a Deputy IGP and with a specific responsibility? Don’t forget Bugri Naabu and that police officer’s leaked tape. They know Dampare won’t help them in this election. NPP never again,” tweeted Kwame Odame.

“He Dey come remove Dampare be dat Mother serpent of corruption,” posted Zeph Messi.

“The appointment of Yahonu deputy as IGP is NOT a coincidence. It is a calculated move by Bawumia and the NPP to oust the highly capable Dampare from office. This is not a democracy, it’s a political agenda,” tweeted Popo.

“It’s funny how Dampare got a Deputy all of a sudden,” commented Sir Jay.

A security analyst also alleged on #3FMSunrise that the appointment of Yohunu as Deputy IGP is preparation for removing Dampare.