Public Outcry as Ghana’s IGP Appears in FBI Badge on Official Uniform
A wave of public criticism has erupted following the circulation of images showing Ghana’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP) wearing what appears to be a United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) badge on his official police uniform.
The development has sparked intense debate on social media and in public discourse, with many Ghanaians questioning the appropriateness and symbolism of a national police chief donning the insignia of a foreign security agency while in official attire.
Critics argue that the move undermines the sovereignty, professionalism, and identity of the Ghana Police Service. Some have asked whether foreign law enforcement agencies such as the FBI or the New York Police Department (NYPD) would ever wear a Ghana Police Service badge on their official uniforms, suggesting that the gesture reflects a lack of seriousness about national institutions.
“We don’t take things seriously in this country,” one commentator lamented, expressing concern that the head of Ghana’s police force would be seen publicly wearing the badge of another country’s security agency.
Others have described the act as symbolic submission and an unnecessary display that diminishes the authority of Ghana’s own security services, stressing that international cooperation should not come at the expense of national pride or protocol.
As of the time of publication, the Ghana Police Service has not issued an official statement clarifying the circumstances under which the FBI badge was worn, or whether it was part of a ceremonial exchange, training affiliation, or unofficial accessory.
The controversy has renewed calls for clear guidelines on uniforms, insignia, and the representation of Ghana’s security institutions, especially at the highest levels of leadership. Many observers say the issue goes beyond fashion or symbolism and touches on how Ghana projects its sovereignty and institutional confidence both locally and internationally.
The public now awaits an official explanation to address the concerns and restore confidence in the leadership and image of the Ghana Police Service.