
Akuffo Addo's Statue
The recent demolition of a statue of President Akufo-Addo in Sekondi-Takoradi has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among local residents. The statue, located at the Effia Nkwanta roundabout, was found completely destroyed on January 13, 2025. Its removal comes after a history of controversy and vandalism since its installation in November 2024.
Initially, the statue faced criticism for symbolizing what many perceived as misplaced priorities. Residents argued that, given the Western Region’s significant contributions to Ghana’s economy, the lack of corresponding infrastructure development made the statue’s presence inappropriate. In December 2024, the statue had already suffered damage when part of its leg was vandalized, prompting local authorities to promise repairs and enhance security around the site.
Upon discovering the statue had been completely demolished, many residents slowed their vehicles to view the scene. Some were visibly pleased, viewing the demolition as a justified act of protest against what they saw as a misallocation of resources. One local resident expressed satisfaction with the statue’s removal, highlighting the community’s concerns about neglect in infrastructure development.
Conversely, others condemned the act of vandalism, arguing that a more respectful approach would have been to relocate the statue rather than destroy it. A resident lamented, “This thing that they have broken hurts me a lot, because Nana Addo has done a lot.” This sentiment reflects the division within the community regarding the statue’s significance and the broader implications of its destruction.
The police, including the Regional Criminal Investigation Department (CID) boss, were present at the site conducting investigations. As they examined the remnants of the statue, the community remained divided. While some celebrated the act, others mourned the loss of a symbol they felt represented a president who had made meaningful contributions.