A section of Oti residents have 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 and has sparked widespread diverse outrage and jubilation among Ghanaians.
However, in a departure from 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 an act of vandalism but also a reflection of a broader societal problem.
Mr. John Yaw Benyenase, former Assembly member of Dambai Central, has expressed his disappointment over the destruction of the statue, stating that such an act of vandalism is non-Ghanaian and unheard of in other parts of the world. Mr. Benyenase said dismantling the statue is not any act of bravery but backwardness and also a serious offense that should be treated as a crime.
He emphasized that such behaviour 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 added.
Madam Gertrude Abena, a resident of Krachi Nchumuru District has 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.
Mr. Peter Yaw Awuranyi, former District Chief Executive (DCE) in Krachi East under President John Dramani Mahama’s first regime, has spoken out against the destruction of the statue, describing it as a “rude and unpleasant” act. The former DCE condemned the attitude and behaviour displayed by the perpetrators at Effia-Nkwanta, emphasizing the need for civility in public discourse.
Source: GNA
