President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana has faced criticism for not recognizing the contribution of the late Ashanti King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu Agyeman Prempeh II, during his speech at the 75th-anniversary event of the University of Ghana.
Proponents of the Ashanti Kingdom took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the omission.
According to The Ashanti Nation, Akufo-Addo failed to acknowledge the role of Otumfuo Osei Tutu Agyeman Prempeh II in mobilizing cocoa farmers across the Asante Territory to contribute funds for the establishment of the University of Ghana. The post highlights that the Akuafo Hall at the university is named after farmers in recognition of their contribution.
During his speech, President Akufo-Addo credited Joseph Boakye Danquah’s commitment to establishing a Ghanaian university as a driving force behind the founding of the University of Ghana. He mentioned Danquah’s efforts to challenge British recommendations for a single West African university, rallying Ghanaians to support their own institution. Akufo-Addo also suggested that naming the university after Danquah could be considered due to his historical contributions.
The omission of Otumfuo Osei Tutu Agyeman Prempeh II’s contribution sparked controversy, with critics pointing out that the Ashanti king’s efforts were essential in establishing the university. The debate highlights the significance of historical figures and their contributions in shaping national institutions and narratives.
particularly the then Asante Territory (Ashanti, Ahafo, Bono, Bono East, Western North regions) who contributed their cocoa money to establish the University of Ghana? At the time when the Asantehene was a cocoa exporter.
The Akuafo Hall at the University buttress my point. pic.twitter.com/kfQBgbIMiu
— The Asante Nation (@Ashanti_Kingdom) August 12, 2023