By: Jacob Aggrey
The Coalition of GaDangme Pressure Group and the GaDangme Tahulɔi Kpee have commended the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Akweley Ocloo, and the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, for standing firm in support of GaDangme heritage in the ongoing debate over the use of the inscription “Oobakɛ” at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
In a statement signed by Jonathan Armah, the group said the two leaders had shown true leadership and a commitment to protecting the culture and identity of the GaDangme people.
The Coalition criticized the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, for what they described as a dismissive and disrespectful rejoinder on the matter.
According to them, the GTA could not wash its hands off the controversy, since it bore ultimate responsibility for developments at the park.
The group argued that the park was not only a national monument but also part of GaDangme heritage because it sits on Ga land in the heart of Accra.
They said attempts to ignore or downplay GaDangme culture at the site would not be tolerated. They further called on President John Dramani Mahama to call some of his appointees, particularly the GTA boss, to order.
The Coalition warned that failure to act would force them to resist strongly against what they described as cultural erasure.
The group also appealed to all GaDangmes, especially those in positions of influence, to rise and push for the preservation of their history, language, and traditions.
BACKGROUND
The controversy began after photos of a new signage at the Park went viral. Some social media users expressed dissatisfaction over the use of “Akwaaba” and “Woezor” without the inclusion of “Oobakɛ,” which means “Welcome” in Ga, the local language of the Greater Accra Region where the park is located.
