Oti residents condemn destruction of Akufo-Addo’s statue

A section of residents in the Oti Region has added their voices to condemn the destruction of a statue of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

The statue, located at Effia-Nkwanta in the Western Region, was vandalized, sparking widespread outrage and mixed reactions among Ghanaians.

However, in contrast to the anger and vitriol expressed by some, residents of the Oti Region are calling for respect and civility.

They argue that the destruction of the statue is not only an act of vandalism but also a reflection of a broader societal problem.

John Yaw Benyenase, former Assembly Member of Dambai Central, expressed his disappointment over the destruction of the statue, stating that such an act of vandalism is uncharacteristic of Ghanaians and is unheard of in other parts of the world.

Benyenase emphasized that dismantling the statue is not an act of bravery but a sign of backwardness, describing it as a serious offense that should be treated as a crime.

He added that such behavior has no place in a civilized society and should be condemned by all.

“This cannot happen anywhere in the world except Ghana; it’s a shame and a disgrace to our democracy and national cohesion. We should be promoting respect, tolerance, and civility, not destroying statues and public property,” he said.

Madam Gertrude Abena, a resident of the Krachi Nchumuru District, strongly condemned the act of vandalism, calling for a thorough investigation and swift action to arrest the perpetrators.

She joined the growing chorus of voices denouncing the destruction, emphasizing the need for accountability and respect for public property.

Peter Yaw Awuranyi, former District Chief Executive (DCE) in Krachi East under President John Dramani Mahama’s first administration, also spoke out against the destruction of the statue, describing it as a “rude and unpleasant” act.

The former DCE condemned the attitude and behavior displayed by the perpetrators at Effia-Nkwanta, emphasizing the need for civility in public discourse.