The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) organized a pivotal Police-Community Dialogue in Gushegu, with the aim of fostering positive relationships and reducing tension between the Ghana Police Service and the local civilian population.
The dialogue, which was a resounding success, brought about a sense of hope and optimism for a safer and more cohesive community.
Hosted by the NCCE Gushegu District Directorate and sponsored by the European Union (EU) under the “Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism Action in the Northern Region of Ghana (PCVE)” initiative, a program aimed at reducing the risk of violent extremism in the region, the event took place on Monday, July 17, 2024, in the T Community.
Awal Abdul-Mugis, the NCCE Gushegu Municipal Director, emphasized the crucial role of community collaboration with the police in preventing violence and extremism. This empowerment and shared responsibility message resonated with the NCCEs, reinforcing their role in creating safer and more cohesive communities.
“Police-civilian relationships “are indispensable; civilians depend on the police for internal security, while the police rely on community cooperation to fulfil their duties,” Abdul-Mugis stated. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Ghana Police in maintaining law and order. This message reassured the audience of their safety and protection.
Addressing misconceptions, DCOP Thomas Tulase, the Gushegu Municipal Police Commander, urged residents to view the police as public servants committed to their safety. He emphasized the confidentiality of informants’ identities and encoinformants’ communication to alleviate fears and build trust.
Political party leaders, community members, representatives of the Ghana Ambulance Service, and Ghana National Fire Service members attended the event at the Gushegu Chief’s Palace. The dialogue concerns the Chief’s collaboration, which improves relationships and promotes shared responsibility in combating violence, crime, and extremism. The Ambulance Service and Fire Service were present to discuss their roles in emergency response and how they can work with the police and the community to ensure public safety.
