The Veteran Administration of Ghana (VAG) has erected a statue at its headquarters in Accra in honour of veteran soldiers whose efforts would be counted as among major reasons that initiated the struggle for independence.
The statue is purported to be that of an “unknown” soldier who was involved in Christiansborg crossroad shooting incident that happened on the February 28, 1948.
The incident led to the shooting of three soldiers and the wounding of about 60 ex-servicemen who marched to Christianbourg castle to petition the British governor over unfavourable conditions of service after returning from the Second World War.
An unveiling ceremony which was held in Accra on February 27, 2018, was attended by top officials of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Ghana Immigration Service and some members of VAG.
A parade made up of officers of the Ghana Navy, GAF and ex-servicemen was held during the occasion.
A wreath was laid in honour of the late veterans by the Minister of Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, on behalf of government.
Besides, Chief of Defence Staff, Lt General Obed Boamah Akwa, laid a wreath on behalf of GAF and Board Chairman of VAG, while Major General CB Yaache laid one on behalf of VAG.
Mr Nitiwul who unveiled the statue as special guest of honour, in his remarks, attributed the peace and freedom in the country to the sacrifices of the ex-servicemen.
“May we be aware that but for the sacrifice of Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, Private Odartey and their colleagues, Ghana’s independence would have delayed and we would not have been having March 6 1957 as our independence date”, he said.
He urged Ghanaians not to take the peace and tranquility that currently existed in the country for granted and also pledged government’s commitment in addressing the challenges of VAG.
Additionally, he pledged the continuous support of government in resourcing GAF and has for that matter asked for the loyalty of the security agency in order to help government carry out its mandate.
Executive Director of VAG Captain Ben Duah gave a clue to the identity of the unnamed soldier by saying that Britain has recently agreed to compensate the surviving soldier for the next five years.
“Ironically, the colonial master, Great Britain, has come to appreciate him and is now prepared to pay £1000 pounds each year for the next five years. And in the event of his death, the surviving wife is supposed to enjoy this benefit”, he added.
By Issah Mohammed