By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
During a historic visit by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to the Ghana Police Service Headquarters in Accra, the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, in his welcome address, described the Asantehene as “the King Solomon of our time,” praising his unparalleled role in peacebuilding, mediation, and national cohesion.
Explaining the evolution of policing in Ghana, IGP Yohuno said colonial policing did not erase indigenous structures but blended them into the modern state system.
“The fusion of traditional authority with modern policing concepts helped shape the policing framework we operate in Ghana today,” he noted.
IGP Yohuno paid tribute to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for preserving these values while helping to modernise them in ways that support national security and public order.
“Your Majesty has consistently supported the Ghana Police Service, particularly in the Ashanti Region. Over the years, you have hosted several Inspectors-General of Police and police leadership, offering counsel, guidance, and encouragement,” he said.
He also underscored the Asantehene’s contributions to peacebuilding and conflict resolution, crediting him with having a profound impact on national security.
“As Chief Constable of this country, I must commend Your Majesty for your peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts, which have strengthened national stability,” the IGP said. “Your wisdom, patience, and moral authority have brought clarity where confusion once prevailed and unity where division once threatened our peace. Indeed, you are the King Solomon of our time.”
IGP Yohuno highlighted the Asantehene’s leadership of the Committee of Eminent Chiefs, which successfully resolved a long-standing multi-traditional crisis, restoring peace and stability in affected areas.
He also cited Otumfuo’s mediation in the Yendi and Bawku conflicts, noting that these interventions provided practical recommendations that continue to guide security operations and enhance community confidence.
“Chiefs, as custodians of land, culture, and customs, remain indispensable partners in maintaining law and order,” he said.
The IGP also commended the Asantehene’s involvement in land dispute resolutions in the Ashanti Region, saying these interventions have reduced violence, restored sanity, and made policing more effective.
“These actions reaffirm the constitutional role of chieftaincy under the 1992 Constitution, which recognises traditional authorities as an integral part of Ghana’s governance system,” he added.
On the fight against illegal mining, IGP Yohuno praised Otumfuo’s firm directives to chiefs to take decisive action within their jurisdictions, underscoring the relevance of traditional leadership in addressing modern security challenges.
Beyond security, the IGP also acknowledged the Asantehene’s commitment to education and development, noting that through the Otumfuo Education Fund, thousands of vulnerable but brilliant students across Ghana have been given opportunities to pursue education.
