The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, delivered a heartfelt tribute at the launch of An Aroma of Policing, the memoir of former IGP Mohammed Ahmed Alhassan. In his address, IGP Yohuno reflected on Alhassan’s extraordinary leadership, the transformational reforms he spearheaded in the Ghana Police Service, and the personal impact he had on his career.
“Our gathering here today is not only to celebrate the publication of a book, but the journey of a man whose creativity, innovation, and passion transformed policing in Ghana,” he said.
A Defining Career and Personal Turning Point
Yohuno recounted the pivotal moment when, as a relatively young officer in 2013, he was unexpectedly appointed as the Regional Commander for Accra, a decision made by then IGP Alhassan based solely on merit.
“I had not worked with him before, nor did I have a personal connection. I was nervous about my posting. But he surprised me. He said, ‘You’ve received a national award for fighting armed robbery, right? That’s why I’m appointing you as Accra Regional Commander. If I do that, I can sleep.’ I was stunned,” Yohuno recalled.
That trust, Yohuno emphasised, changed the trajectory of his professional life. The appointment gave him the platform to demonstrate his capabilities at a high level of command, ultimately paving the way to his current position as Inspector-General of Police.
“For that, Sir, I remain eternally grateful,” he said to Alhassan.
Legacy of Reforms and Visionary Leadership
Yohuno lauded the enduring impact of Alhassan’s tenure as IGP, citing several critical initiatives that redefined policing strategy and professionalism in Ghana. These included:
- Creation of the National Patrol Department, which became central to proactive crime prevention.
- Revitalisation of community policing and introduction of the 10th City Policing Initiative, which dramatically reduced armed robbery and violent crime.
- Establishment of the Foreign Police Unit (FPU) and the historic deployment of the first Ghanaian FPU to South Sudan in 2015.
- Anti-corruption reforms, welfare improvements, and the establishment of key training institutions such as the Police Command and Staff College.
“His reforms didn’t just touch the national level; they extended to the global stage. He was instrumental in shaping Ghana’s participation in international peacekeeping and modern law enforcement,” Yohuno noted.
A Call to Read, Reflect, and Reform
IGP Yohuno encouraged all members of the security services, students, analysts, and policymakers to read the memoir and reflect on its lessons.
“This book is a gift, not only to the Police Service but to every citizen. It offers guidance for anyone aspiring to lead, grounded in integrity, resilience, and national service,” he said.
In closing, Yohuno praised Alhassan not only as a trailblazing leader but as a symbol of what principled, visionary leadership can accomplish.
“Mr. Alhassan, you are a true beacon of inspiration. This memoir preserves your legacy, and it will inspire generations to come.”
By Peter Quao Adattor
