Damaged Statue Sparks Debate in Sekondi-Takoradi

 Sekondi-Takoradi, Western Region, Ghana – A statue of President Nana Akufo-Addo, erected at the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi, has been found damaged, sparking a debate about the incident's cause and the statue's overall significance.  A noticeable hole was discovered on Monday, December 16th, 2024, at the back of one of the statue's legs.

 

The damage comes after some Takoradi residents previously vowed to remove the statue, raising questions about whether the damage was intentional or the result of a structural defect.  While the cause remains unclear, the incident has ignited diverse reactions within the community.

 

Doris Arhin, a local resident, expressed surprise at the damage, stating, “I am very surprised. This was done so the president could be remembered. I am surprised one of its legs is broken but I haven’t seen anyone say he or she intends to destroy it.”

 

Another resident, Esther Anosi, offered a different perspective, suggesting the damage might be due to rushed construction.  “I am of the opinion that the statue was done in a rush amounting to its defects because they were supposed to use two months but they used two weeks. I think the authorities had a good reason for making this statue,” she commented.

 

The statue, unveiled by President Akufo-Addo himself during a pre-election tour, was intended to commemorate several key projects undertaken during his administration in the Western Region.  These include the rehabilitation of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, the construction of the 3-tier Sinohydro interchange, and the Takoradi Market Circle redevelopment, according to Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah.

 

The incident highlights the complex relationship between public memorials and community sentiment.  The conflicting views expressed by residents underscore the diverse opinions surrounding the statue's purpose and the appropriateness of its placement.  Whether the damage was deliberate vandalism or a consequence of poor construction remains a subject of ongoing speculation and investigation.  Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident or planned actions.