Jon Benjamin Says Living Individuals Shouldn’t Commission Their Own Statues.
The installation of a statue of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has drawn criticism from former UK Ambassador to Ghana Jon Benjamin, who cautioned against such acts during one’s lifespan or term in office.
His comments come after accused National Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters vandalized the Akufo-Addo statue on January 13, 2025.
In November 2024, Akufo-Addo’s “Thank-You Tour” in the Western Region included the unveiling of the statue in front of Effia Nkwanta Hospital in Sekondi. Residents who questioned the former president’s contributions to the area expressed strong disapproval to the event.
The Western Region has seen a range of responses to the statue’s recent dismantling. The NDC has vehemently denied any involvement or endorsement, despite the fact that some locals have denounced the act.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on January 13, Mr. Benjamin remarked, “Nobody should ever put up a statue of themselves while still alive, let alone while still in office.”