Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Ghanaians. He thanked the government. He also thanked the Ghana Police Service. This was after the announcement of his replacement by COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
In a statement issued on March 14, 2025, Dr Dampare shared his deep appreciation. He received overwhelming support from well-wishers across the country and beyond. This was especially true in the 24 hours following his removal.
He thanked former President Akufo-Addo for appointing him. He said, “I wish to express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the former President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. He gave me the opportunity to serve our nation as the Inspector-General of Police. I made history as the youngest IGP in the 4th Republic.”
He expressed his appreciation to President John Mahama. They had a positive working relationship during the brief period before his removal.
Dr Dampare expressed his gratitude to religious and traditional leaders for their prayers, wisdom, and guidance. He described their counsel as “indispensable” to his leadership. He acknowledged the vital cooperation of sister security agencies in maintaining law and order.
He also thanked civil society organizations for their contributions to improving the police service through constructive dialogue and engagement.
He noted that their advocacy played a role in shaping some of the reforms undertaken during his tenure. He expressed gratitude to the international community and diplomatic missions. He highlighted their support, engagements, and external reviews. These contributions helped shape the police service.
He reflected on his 35-year journey in the Ghana Police Service. He described his rise from a General Constable to IGP as an “incredible opportunity to serve.”
He said, “I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Ghana Police Service for the past 35 years. I rose in rank from a General Constable to Inspector-General of Police. I became the youngest Commissioner of Police and the youngest IGP in the 4th Republic.”
He also acknowledged the Police Management Board (POMAB) and all ranks of the Ghana Police Service. He stated that their collective efforts had been instrumental in maintaining security in the country.
He praised the dedication of officers. He said, “The contribution that the Rank and File of the Ghana Police Service has made to security is significant. Their impact on law and order during my tenure has been enormous.”
Despite his exit, Dr Dampare reaffirmed his commitment to serving Ghana, noting that his passion for national service remained strong.
“I have served the Ghana Police Service for 35 years. This is out of my nearly 55 years of life. My record is unblemished. I remain energetic, committed, and enthusiastic about serving my nation with discipline, honour, and integrity,” he added.