A Statue Stands Tall, But Even Stone May Crumble—Part Of Akufo-Addo's Monument In Sekondi-Takoradi Lies Broken

A developing incident in Sekondi-Takoradi has sparked widespread attention after part of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s statue, situated in front of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, was discovered damaged. On the morning of Monday, December 16, 2024, a large gaping hole was noticed at the back of one of the statue’s legs.

President Nana Akufo-Addo's Statue

The cause of the damage remains uncertain, with speculation ranging from deliberate vandalism to possible structural flaws. This comes amid earlier threats by some residents to remove the statue, citing dissatisfaction with President Akufo-Addo’s legacy.

Residents of Sekondi-Takoradi have expressed mixed views on the situation. Speaking to Channel One News, Doris Arhin, a local resident, shared her shock at the incident.

“I am very surprised. This was done so the president could be remembered. I am really surprised one of its legs is broken, but I haven’t seen anyone trying to destroy it,” she said.

Another resident, Esther Anosi, attributed the damage to potential construction flaws.

“I believe the statue was done in a rush, which may have led to the defects. They were supposed to take two months but only used two weeks. However, I think the authorities had a good reason for creating this statue,” she explained.

The statue was unveiled by President Akufo-Addo as part of his tour of the Western Region ahead of the elections. Its purpose was to commemorate key development projects initiated under his administration, including the rehabilitation of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, the 3-tier Sinohydro interchange, and the Takoradi Market Circle redevelopment.

Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah had described the statue as a symbol of progress under Akufo-Addo’s leadership. However, the incident has reignited public debate about the decision to erect the statue, with some residents questioning its necessity and calling for its removal.

Local authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the damage or outline plans for repairing the statue.