Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, over the weekend, joined the Chief of Akyem Adadientem, Barima Ofori Asante and the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr Kingsley Agyemang, among others, to unveil a statue in honour of one of the founding fathers of Ghana and a member of the Big Six, Dr Joseph Kwame Kyeretwie Boakye Danquah, widely known as Dr JB Danquah, at Akyem Adadientem in the Eastern Region.
The ceremony also celebrated the Okyehene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, as a newly paved street was named after him in recognition of his contributions to the development of the community.
The move forms part of activities to commemorate the 61st anniversary of JB Danquah’s death and honour his significant achievements and contributions to the genesis and development of the country.
Speaking at the ceremony to commemorate the anniversary, Nana Akufo-Addo noted that Dr J B Danquah was a man of great intelligence who will be remembered for his lasting contributions to politics, law and education in the country.
He commended the chief of Akyem Adadientem for empowering vision to honour the late politician, scholar and lawyer.
Dr Antoinette Adwoa Tsiboe-Darko, Executive Director of the Danquah Institute, highlighted Dr J.B. Danquah’s pivotal role in Ghana’s democracy, lamenting that his contributions remain unknown to many young people.
Madam Antoinette emphasised that democracy is not only about elections, but a way of life which reflected in how citizens engage, respect opinions, and take responsibility for their communities, for which Dr J B Danquah will forever be remembered.
Barima Ofori Asante, the Chief of Akyem Adadientem, recounted Dr J.B. Danquah’s history, highlighting the significance of constructing a monument in his honour, which necessitated the current ceremony.
He emphasised that commemorating Dr JB Danquah’s legacy requires more than nostalgia; it demands a forward-looking approach, inspiring current and future generations. He noted that Dr Danquah’s life was devoted to ideas, and honouring him best entails embracing and promoting those ideas.
The Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr Kingsley Agyemang, underscored that Dr J.B. Danquah’s role in Ghana’s democracy is significant, and he should be recognised, especially among young people.
He noted that Dr Danquah believed ideas shape nations, and his legacy should inspire critical thinking and civic engagement.
The Akyem Abuakwa MP reaffirmed his commitment to fostering Ghana’s democratic growth, stating that the country’s future depends on robust civic engagement and economic development.
