I guess it’s no news to you that the remains of the former president of the Republic of Ghana, Late John Evans Atta Mills was on Friday (yesterday) interred at the “Asomdwee Park” (nee Geese Park) to start his journey into the world beyond. This was after some 90 minutes of burial service held at the Independence Square in Accra.
The presidential casket being conveyed on a gun carriage
The burial, which was in full military style, was duly attended by heads of states and dignitaries from around the world, however, the elegant and plush burial procession is not the crux of this blog post. I am writing this to state my observation from the sidelines on the event of the death of H.E J. E. A Mills and the support, love and solidarity shown by Ghanaians in respect to their hero.
The kind of deep love, oneness and passion I’ve seen displayed across Ghana in the past week is one that I have never seen elsewhere. It’s simply overwhelming!
At the risk of sounding unpatriotic to my first country (Nigeria), I’d like to make it known that Nigerians couldn’t and never showed such solidarity and love during the death and burial of the Late President Yar’Adua of Nigeria.
Returning back to Ghana (2 days ago) and driving all the way down to Koforidua, in the Eastern Region, with every inch of the ride it was obvious that the country was in full mourning. You won’t need to be told that someone important to the country and hearts of Ghanaians passed on.
What I saw everywhere was heavy-hearted patriots coming together in solidarity to show their love and last respect to their late Leader in the little way they could do so. Looking at any corner of the streets you’d see at least 8 in every 10 Ghana in a touch of red and black – even if it’s just a little ribbon to the neck or a socks.
The commercial drivers and private car owners didn’t miss out in showing some little respect by flying red ribbons on conspicuous parts of their cars. Then there was the traditional hoisting of flags at half-mast at every possible place a flag pole could be found.
Some mourners even took it upon themselves to rent canopies and speakers to put by the road side and other open spaces to host other mourners in celebration of the life of the late hero. These are things that never happened in Nigeria when my former president (Yar’Adua) passed on – at least not up to a quarter of this was seen anywhere there! SMH
With the death and burial of Late Prez Atta Mills, Ghanaians have sent a strong message out to the world – we are patriotic, single-spirited and are our brothers keeper and lover! Much love and respect to every Ghanaian out there for this!!
In a closing bit I’d like to quote the last words of the late Prez Mills as revealed by his brother:
Before my brother (Mills) died, the last words that he said that I clearly remember is that, he raised his hands in the air and he said ‘God, I leave it all to you, Amen’.
There is no doubt that the “man of peace” will be dwelling with God right now. On behalf of the editorial team of Ghana Crunch and myself, may the gentle soul of Late Prez John Evans Atta Mills rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord.
Amen!!
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