Atta-Mills deserves credit for Nkrumah’s statue to AU Headquarters

Historian and legal practitioner Yaw Anokye-Frimpong has called for greater recognition of former President John Evans Atta Mills for his role in elevating Ghana’s founding leader, Kwame Nkrumah, on the continental stage through the placement of his statue at the African Union headquarters.

Speaking during an interview on Angel FM, Dr. Anokye-Frimpong described the decision as a significant yet often overlooked milestone in Ghana’s diplomatic and historical contributions to Africa. According to him, the move ensured that Nkrumah’s legacy as a leading figure in Pan-Africanism is permanently recognised at the highest level of continental governance.

“We shouldn’t forget former President Mills who sent Nkrumah’s statue to the African Union headquarters,” he stated, emphasizing that the decision was both deliberate and impactful.

Dr. Anokye-Frimpong explained that Nkrumah’s recognition at the African Union was not automatic, given the historical context of the continent. He noted that more than 20 African countries came together in 1963 to form the Organisation of African Unity, the predecessor to the African Union, meaning that several founding leaders across the continent had legitimate claims to similar honours.

He further pointed out that with Africa now made up of 54 countries, many nations could equally advocate for the recognition of their own founding figures. In this context, he argued, the decision by President Mills to place Nkrumah’s statue at the AU headquarters was both strategic and symbolic, ensuring Ghana’s continued prominence in the narrative of African unity and liberation.

According to the historian, such decisions play a crucial role in shaping how leadership, influence, and historical contributions are remembered across generations. He stressed that Ghana’s efforts in promoting Nkrumah’s legacy should not be underestimated, particularly given Nkrumah’s central role in advancing Pan-African ideals.

Dr. Anokye-Frimpong also used the platform to revisit broader debates about Ghana’s political history and the recognition of key national figures. He maintained that Nkrumah’s contributions continue to resonate far beyond Ghana, making his presence at the African Union not just symbolic, but deeply meaningful for the continent’s collective identity.

In addition to his historical reflections, the historian—also known as Lawyer Anokye-Frimpong—shared personal experiences from his time in Ghana’s media space. He alleged that his outspoken views, particularly his praise for Nkrumah, have sometimes attracted resistance.

He claimed that during the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, he was removed from a programme on the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation after consistently highlighting Nkrumah’s achievements.

“I know he is listening to me. Some time ago, when he was in power, I was speaking on GBC, and he rang them to have me removed from the show because I was heaping too much praise on Nkrumah and not him or JB Danquah,” he alleged.

“So for a whole year, I wasn’t going to GBC. This is not defamation. I’m telling you the truth,” he added, insisting on the accuracy of his claims.

Dr. Anokye-Frimpong argued that such actions, if true, could have implications for a leader’s credibility, particularly in international engagements involving sensitive issues such as reparations and historical accountability.

His comments have since reignited public discourse around historical recognition, political legacy, and the role of national leaders in shaping Africa’s collective memory. The discussion also highlights the enduring significance of Nkrumah’s vision and Ghana’s influence in the broader Pan-African movement.