|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Hon. Hajia Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah
Despite my efforts, I could not catch the Hon. Speaker’s eye to contribute to the statement on the overthrow of the great Osagyefo, a statement made by my respected colleague, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, MP for Ellembelle Constituency.
That Dark Day in Ghana – 24th February 1966
It has been 60 years since that dark day in Ghana’s political history:
60 years ago, we set back the clock of development.
60 years ago, we stalled the conscious effort to bridge the developmental gap between the North and South.
60 years ago, we chose propaganda and sophistry over national development and cohesion.
60 years ago, we chose division, entitlement, and elitism over unity.
60 years ago, we chose disrespect over global esteem and recognition for Ghana and Ghanaians.
60 years ago, we gave up dignity, even in travel, in exchange for subjugation.
60 years ago, we discarded nearly everything enduring, enlightening, and valuable, walking into neocolonialism, which Osagyefo himself described as the “last stage of imperialism.”
History will judge all, but it is heartwarming that history has been kind to Osagyefo, the BBC African of the Millennium. He was a man of love—love for his country, Ghana, and for the continent of Africa. After 60 years, we can only hope to love our country and continent as much as he did.
He was also a homely and loving man. He cherished his wife Fathia and his children. Recently, I saw photos on Facebook of him strolling in the gardens of Flagstaff House with his family, holding the hands of Hon. Samia. The photos reflected the warmth and love he shared. He also loved his mother, Nyaneba, fiercely and openly. Long Live Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Founder and First President of Ghana.
It is no coincidence that our international airport has reverted to its original and dignified name, Accra International Airport. While many Ghanaians would have preferred Kwame Nkrumah International Airport, we take comfort in the saying: “Half a loaf is better than none.”
Nkrumah, indeed, Never Dies.
Our sages remind us: “Self-preservation remains the first law of nature.” Let those who have ears, listen.