Pressure group, OccupyGhana, has expressed the need for government to establish a constitutional commission of inquiry into the Akosombo dam spillage.

According to the group, it has followed the unfolding aftermath of the spillage and official explanations provided for the catastrophe. However, it indicated that the group is far from satisfied, as it strains belief that the rapid increase in water volume at the Dam caught Ghanaians affected completely off guard, “leaving us with no alternative but a massive, destructive spillage”.

OccupyGhana revealed that Ghanaians have a right to know the precise cause(s) of the catastrophe and whether it was preventable. It noted that if the devastation could have been prevented, those responsible should be held accountable, which may include their removal from their positions.

“OccupyGhana firmly believes that the totality of these matters rises to meet the constitutional standard of a ‘matter of public interest [and importance]’ that is sufficiently grave to warrant establishing a Commission of Inquiry, as provided for under Chapter 23 of the Constitution. We earnestly urge the President or Parliament (through a resolution), to take immediate steps to form this Commission…”
OccupyGhana

Furthermore, OccupyGhana insisted that if there are indications of criminal acts or negligence, it expects independent police investigations leading to prosecutions. However, it noted that if it was indeed an unforeseeable event, the experience has made it foreseeable, and government needs to know and understand the measures to be put in place to prevent such a disaster in the future.

“OccupyGhana revealed that the gravity of the situation cannot be overstated, and it is also alarming to even consider the scale of devastation that could have occurred had the Dam faced complete failure, as tragically witnessed in Derna, Libya, resulting in the reported loss of over 11,000 precious lives.
“In these difficult times, OccupyGhana stands in solidarity with the communities affected by the recent Akosombo Dam spillage. We are deeply concerned about the devastating consequences of this disaster and the extensive harm it has caused to our fellow Ghanaians.”
OccupyGhana

Impact of dam spillage

Contemplating the risk of similar disasters, OccupyGhana cited Burkina Faso which almost every year, opens valves of its Bagre Dam to spill excess water. This, it indicated, routinely destroys farmlands, food crops, livestock and houses in portions of northern Ghana.

Furthermore, it it explained that potable water gets polluted and sometimes, lives are lost.

“We must also mention the almost-routine Weija Dam spillages and its harmful effects on lives in the area. These raise fundamental questions about our preparedness and response mechanisms. Are we perpetually at risk of such catastrophic events? Concerning the Akosombo Dam, can we be assured that the Volta River Authority possesses both the means and the foresight to predict and pre-empt such disasters?”
OccupyGhana

Moreover, OccupyGhana expressed that on critical aspect that demands immediate attention is how Ghanaians build along waterways and riverbanks in the catchment areas. It emphasized that the government must acknowledge that settlements will continue to exist in these areas, and the manner in which they are developed and constructed must change.

In light of this, it underscored the need for government to adapt to ensure that these communities are not unduly exposed to the risk of devastating floods.

“We stand for transparency, accountability and the well-being of our nation. Our call for an independent Commission of Inquiry is rooted in the conviction that the full truth must be uncovered, lessons must be learned to safeguard our people and our future, and that responsible rural and urban planning and development are crucial to mitigate future risks.”
OccupyGhana

Meanwhile, OccupyGhana expressed gratitude to all those who have been involved in the mobilization of emergency relief support for the displaced communities. It highlighted that their dedication to providing aid in these challenging times is commendable.