Fresh allegations of nepotism and abuse of discretionary authority have surfaced within the Ghana Police Service, with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, accused of using special promotion powers to advance the careers of close family members.

The allegations are contained in a strongly worded statement currently circulating among senior police officers.

The document claims the developments have sparked growing internal discontent, negatively affecting morale and confidence in the leadership of the Service less than a year into the IGP’s tenure.

According to the statement, the IGP personally authorised at least four Police Wireless Messages between January 20 and January 30, 2026, approving special promotions for several officers alleged to be related to him.

The promotions were reportedly justified on grounds of “exceptional commitment and dedication to duty.”

One of the promotions cited in the document allegedly elevated No. 6331 PW/Sgt. Esther Dede Yohuno, described as the IGP’s niece, was promoted from the rank of Sergeant to Inspector with two incremental credits, effective January 1, 2026.

The statement further alleges that additional family members received similar promotions within the same period.

It claims that on January 30, 2026, three separate signals were issued promoting six officers under special recommendation, including G/Sgt. Godwin Teye Yohuno, PW/Sgt. Joyce Maku Yohuno and four junior-ranked officers.

Critics quoted in the statement questioned whether all the promoted officers could have independently demonstrated acts of exceptional bravery, crime prevention success, or outstanding operational performance within the same short timeframe to warrant special promotions.

The allegations raise concerns about possible violations of Regulation 37(2)(c) of the Ghana Police Service Regulations, 2012 (C.I. 76), which limits special promotions to officers who exhibit acts of bravery, valour, or exceptional operational achievement.

“Leadership in uniform demands not only fairness but visible impartiality,” the statement noted, warning that the promotion of relatives through discretionary powers risks eroding public trust and undermining institutional credibility.

The document also cautioned that the situation could worsen morale across police formations, citing growing resentment, declining motivation, weakened discipline, and challenges to command authority.

Consequently, the statement has called on the Police Council, the Ministry of the Interior, Parliament’s Select Committee on Defence and Interior, and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to initiate an independent audit of all special promotions.

It further urged the institutions to investigate potential conflicts of interest and reinforce transparent, merit-based promotion processes within the Service.

“The Ghana Police Service does not belong to any individual or family,” the statement stressed.

“It belongs to the Republic.”