Mahama, 'prophet without honour at home' – Dele Momodu

President John Mahama is doing well for Ghana even though some Ghanaians still complain of difficulties, Ovation International publisher Chief Dele Momodu has said.

According to the former presidential candidate of Nigeria, Mr Mahama is more of a prophet without honour in his own home, since some Ghanaians appear not to appreciate his efforts and achievements.

Asked by Nii Arday Clegg on Starr FM’s Morning Starr, on Friday February 12, if he could compare the president of his country, Muhammadu Buhari – whom he described as “a man of integrity” and “Jesus Christ without disciples,” – to Mr Mahama, Chief Momodu said: “You can’t compare the two because the two countries are different. Ghana is a much smaller country. You don’t have the resources of Nigeria, so, if you see a man, who is able to manage such small resources, [he deserves some commendation]”.

“I go through the airport and I see a lot of things, I think what the government of Ghana needs to do is to publicise its activities more, because anytime I pass through the airport [Kotoka International Airport], I see the changes going on there. I travel for two, three weeks, and come back, and I notice something new at the airport. You have new elevators, you have escalators, you have conveyor belts, even now you have automated immigration services and all that.

“For me, we should not dismiss it. Yes, no government is perfect, but definitely, something is going on in Ghana. Ghana is a destination for a lot of investors, people are coming in, tourists are pouring in, hotels that I have not even seen in Nigeria are springing up here, Ghana has two or three of the biggest hotels that you can find in Africa today, there must be something happening in Ghana, but what happens anywhere is that a prophet is not likely to be recognised in his own home,” the philanthropist added.

Chief Momodu said he admires Mr Mahama “a great deal and I do tell him from time to time that I admire him.”

“President Mahama has come at a very difficult period, the world is in turmoil, it’s not just Ghana, I tell my Ghanaian friends all the time when they complain that, you see, let us thank God for little mercies. It could be worse, but I see a lot of activities going on. I just listened to the mayor, some minutes ago, talk about what they are doing in Tema, they wouldn’t be doing that if you don’t have someone at the top, who is able to inspire those under him. Yes there is so much work still to be done here, but I think President Mahama has put in his best and he should be encouraged and let’s see what happens thereafter.”