IGP’s ‘Lay down your arms, we’ll recruit you into Police Service’ comment reckless, unfortunate – Annoh-Dompreh

Member of Parliament for Nsawam/Adoagyiri who doubles as Minority Chief Whip, Mr. Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has described as a reckless and unfortunate statement made by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, during his engagement with chiefs, opinion leaders, and community members in Bawku.  Addressing some members of the Parliamentary Press Corps at a press conference held by the Minority on the Bawku crisis, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh expressed deep concern over the IGP’s comment suggesting that individuals who lay down their arms could be considered for recruitment into the police service.

“The IGP got it wrong with his comment -this is purported to be his major public statement ever since he was appointed. And maybe he made that statement just on the spur of the moment, but it is an unfortunate statement.

It is most unfortunate to say that if you lay down your arms, you’ll be considered for recruitment. It is out of place. If any other person said this, yes, we may not attach seriousness. But coming from the IGP and the ramifications of that statement is critical,” the Minority Chief Whip said.

He warned that such remarks risk setting a dangerous precedent in other parts of the country, where a similar crisis may occur.

Mr. Annoh-Dompreh urged the IGP to reconsider the statement, adding that such comments undermine the integrity of law enforcement and could embolden violent actors in volatile areas.

“Does it mean that people from other parts of the country will also just fight, and then when they lay down their arms, they will be considered for recruitment into the police service?” Nsawam/Adoagyiri lawmaker enquired.

Meanwhile, the Minority, led by its Ranking Member on Defense and Interior and MP for Assin South, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, has urged security agencies to swiftly investigate the cause of the renewed violence in Bawku and take immediate steps to prevent further escalation.

His calls follow a violent confrontation on Thursday, April 10, between the police and some youth in the Bawku enclave, which reportedly led to fatalities and injuries.

The Assin South lawmaker expressed serious concern over the recurring conflict in the area and called for urgent intervention.

“On the curfew that has been tightened, we’re urging all security agencies to immediately investigate the causes of the escalation. And take urgent steps to address,” he appealed.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour emphasized the need for security personnel to act with professionalism and sensitivity.

The Minority also called for a coordinated and inclusive approach to bring lasting peace to the troubled area.

“In approaching matters in Bawku enclave to do so with absolute professionalism, circumspection, fairness but firmness, in a very diplomatic way, taking into account the cultural and emotional sensitivities around this conflict,” he stated.

By: Inghananewstoday.com/FAD