The former UK Ambassador to Ghana, Jon Benjamin, has weighed in on the recent demolition of a statue of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in Sekondi-Takoradi, cautioning against erecting such monuments during one’s lifetime or tenure.
His comments came after unknown individuals vandalized the statue, which had been unveiled in November 2024 as part of Akufo-Addo’s “Thank-You Tour” in the Western Region.
Speaking via a post on X , Mr. Benjamin stated, “Nobody should ever put up a statue of themselves while still alive, let alone while still in office.”
The statue, located in front of Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, faced significant backlash from its inception.
Residents criticized the decision, questioning the former President’s contributions to the region and arguing that funds could have been better allocated to address pressing issues such as road infrastructure and healthcare improvements.
Additionally, the statue became a target of vandalism shortly after its unveiling.
Instances included the removal of its commemorative plaque and damage to one of its legs, reflecting public dissatisfaction.
Local reports indicate that the final act of demolition on January 13, 2025, may have been politically motivated, as alleged supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have been accused of involvement.
However, the NDC has strongly denied any connection to or endorsement of the act.
The incident has sparked debates in the Western Region, with some residents condemning the vandalism as an unlawful expression of dissent, while others see it as a reflection of public frustration with decisions viewed as self-aggrandizing.
The former President is yet to comment on the matter, and police have launched investigations into the incident to identify those responsible for the demolition.
Former UK Ambassador to Ghana, Jon Benjamin, has expressed disapproval over the erection of a statue honouring former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
According to the diplomat, erecting monuments in one’s honour during their lifetime or tenure in office is wrong.#TV3GH pic.twitter.com/Ex1rDKZxO7
— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) January 13, 2025
