A private legal practitioner, Justice Abdulai, has filed a lawsuit against the Attorney General (AG) and the Ghana Police Service (GPS) challenging the recent appointment of Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno as the Deputy Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The suit, dated July 30, 2024, was initiated in response to President Akufo-Addo’s appointment of COP Yohuno as the Deputy IGP in charge of operations on July 17, 2024.
Justice Abdulai argues that the appointment is unconstitutional, citing concerns over the legal basis for the President’s decision.
In the writ, Abdulai is seeking a court order to restrain COP Yohuno from acting in his newly appointed capacity.
He contends that the role of Deputy IGP in charge of operations is not recognized by the existing legal framework governing police appointments.
“A further order restraining the Inspector General of Police or any command under him from accepting, relating to and/or issuing instructions or commands to COP Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno in his assumed capacity as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in Charge of Operations,” the writ states, reflecting the lawyer’s determination to halt any official recognition of Yohuno’s appointment.
In response, the Jubilee House defended the appointment, noting that it was made following the advice of the Police Council during a meeting held on July 17, 2024.
A statement from the Presidency highlighted COP Yohuno’s “exceptional credentials and dedication to duty,” describing him as a distinguished law enforcement officer with a career spanning over three decades.
The statement emphasized his extensive experience and the key positions he has held within the Ghana Police Service, positioning the appointment as a strategic decision to enhance the operational effectiveness of the police force.
