Ghana Police Failed Us at Ablekuma North – Security Expert
Osei Ofori warns of growing electoral instability following violent incidents during the rerun
- Ablekuma North violence signals rising electoral instability
- Attackers should’ve been arrested immediately, not after tensions cooled
- Political leaders must avoid statements that escalate tension
Security Expert Nana Osei Ofori has described the recent violence at Ablekuma North during the electoral rerun as a dangerous signal of deeper instability in Ghana’s democratic process.
Speaking on the Ghana Se Sen morning show with Kwame Tanko on Lawson TV/Radio, he stated that Ghana is “sitting on a time bomb.”
Ofori questioned how a peaceful democracy like Ghana could deteriorate to this level, stressing that such violence should never occur again.
“Do you think the opposition will sit quietly and allow this to happen again?” he asked pointedly.
Expressing deep disappointment in the Ghana Police Service, Ofori blamed them for failing to provide adequate security at just 19 polling stations during the rerun. He argued that all police resources could have been concentrated at these centers without needing military support.
He criticized the delayed response and called for the immediate arrest of attackers, rather than waiting for tensions to cool before issuing statements.
Touching on former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s remarks, he described them as “dangerous.” Dr. Bawumia, who was the NPP Flagbearer for the 2024 general elections, condemned the violence and urged President John Mahama to act.
Bawumia warned that the NPP “will remember” if nothing is done—remarks Ofori believes could further escalate political tensions.
He emphasized that police officers must be well-armed and properly resourced for future electoral duties.
He also criticized the way Hawa Koomson’s involvement was handled, stating that as a former cabinet minister, she should not have been treated in such a manner.
Ofori warned that the chaos at Ablekuma North has already sown fear among voters in places like Akwatia, where a by-election is imminent.
