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Statue of Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo Destroyed Amid Controversy
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A statue of Ghana’s former president, Nana Akufo-Addo, has been destroyed just weeks after his departure from office. Images shared on Monday by local media show the statue, which was unveiled in November in the Western Region, reduced to ruins. The severed head of the sculpture lies on the ground, with the torso destroyed and only a damaged pedestal remaining.

The unveiling of the statue, meant to honor Akufo-Addo’s development initiatives, drew widespread criticism and ridicule on social media, with many accusing the former president of self-glorification. The statue had already been partially vandalized last month, with one leg damaged. Despite calls from local residents for its removal, authorities had promised to repair it.

Mixed Reactions to the Destruction

The statue’s destruction has sparked divided opinions. Some locals view the act as justified, while others condemn the vandalism as an improper way to express dissatisfaction.

One resident told Citi FM that the statue was “of no benefit” to the community, adding, “If it’s destroyed, it’s normal.” Others expressed regret, arguing for a more civil approach to addressing concerns. Another resident told Joy FM he was pleased with the destruction, citing the use of public funds for its construction during a time of economic hardship.

Criticism Over Timing and Cost

The statue, made of a combination of metal, wire mesh, clay, fiberglass, and resin, was created by sculptor Justice Gaisie. Its unveiling came at a time when Ghana was grappling with its worst economic crisis in a generation. Critics questioned the allocation of resources for the statue while the country faced a cost-of-living crisis and relied on a $3 billion IMF bailout.

The controversy over the statue became a focal point during December’s presidential election. President John Mahama, who won in a landslide victory, criticized the statue’s erection, calling it insensitive to the struggles of ordinary Ghanaians. He argued that it should be up to the people to honor a leader’s legacy, not a decision imposed by the individual being celebrated.

Unanswered Questions

Authorities have yet to identify the individuals behind the destruction or their motives, and the police have not commented on the incident. The statue’s removal leaves a symbolic and physical void, reflecting the lingering tensions surrounding the former president’s legacy and the socio-economic challenges faced by the country.

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Piers Potter
Author: Piers Potter

Piers Potter

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