Akufo-Addo condemns Cote d’Ivoire terrorist attack

 

The flagbearer of the opposition New Patriotic Party, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, has condemned the terrorist attack on beach resorts at Grand Bassam in Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday, which killed 16 persons.

In a statement published on Facebook on Monday, Nana Addo said he was saddened by news of the attack, which he described as despicable and cowardly.

 “Like all Ghanaians, I have been deeply shocked and saddened by Sunday's news of a terrorist attack on the ancient Ivorian town of Grand Bassam, which led to the tragic loss of 16 lives and left dozens injured.

“I condemn these despicable and cowardly attacks, and extend my deepest condolences to the families of the dead and wounded, Nana Addo wrote.

He said: “This attack confirms the fears of many that terrorists are widening their scope of operations in West Africa, with Mali and Burkina Faso being recent targets, and is a stark reminder of the threat of global terrorism. We are, therefore, duty bound, as a member state of ECOWAS and as peaceful neighbours of the good people of Cote d’Ivoire, to help combat this menace.

“The Ivorian people, and, indeed, my good friend, President Alassane Ouattara, have the solidarity of all Ghanaians and of all peace-loving people in Africa. In times like these, citizens of Côte d'Ivoire need to be assured with deeds, not just words, that the world stands with them and stands ready to support them in the necessary fight against such evil.

“God bless Cote d’Ivoire, God bless Ghana and God bless Mother Africa."

Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb has claimed responsibility for the attacks on at least three hotels in the Grand Bassam beach resort area.

Alassane Ouattara, Ivorian president, told reporters that  as many as 14 civilians and two special forces soldiers died during the assault. Six of the assailants were killed by government forces. At least four Europeans were among the civilians killed. The rest are believed to be locals. Witnesses said the gunmen arrived on foot, wearing hooded masks.

The Grand Bassam area, a UNESCO world heritage site just 25 miles away from Abidjan, the commercial capital, is popular with expatriates and locals.