The tragic June 3, 2015 fire and flood disaster could have been prevented. This is the assertion by Senyo K. Hosi, Convener of the OneGhana Movement, a civil society group. He spoke at the 11th anniversary memorial of the disaster. Many lives were lost in one of Ghana's worst peacetime tragedies.
Mr. Hosi stated that evidence presented in ongoing legal cases supports this claim. Stronger oversight and enforcement of safety rules might have averted the tragedy. Survivors and families still live with physical, emotional, and economic scars. They await justice more than a decade later.
The June 3, 2015 event remains a stark reminder of Ghana's vulnerability. Disasters often expose weaknesses in urban planning and disaster management. The event led to widespread destruction and significant loss of life. It also highlighted gaps in accountability for public and private institutions.
“The disaster of June 3 was needless,” Mr. Hosi said. He added that it should have been avoided. Those responsible for public safety failed to do their duty. Evidence from court proceedings showed admission of preventability. A GOIL witness admitted the disaster could have been avoided. The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) witness confirmed stronger oversight could have helped.
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has faced criticism. The AMA is responsible for enforcing planning and safety rules. It allegedly failed to appear in court at times. This resulted in sanctions against the Assembly. Mr. Hosi stressed the need for the government to show commitment. This commitment must be through tangible relief and accountability for victims.
The movement called for the anniversary to be a turning point. It should signify responsibility, not just remembrance. The group wants to rebuild public trust in state institutions. They urged that Ghana's reset agenda must include justice for victims. This means accountability for institutions and relief for those affected.
The fight for justice has taken nearly eight years. Lawyers are providing pro bono, or free, legal representation. Samson Lardy Anyenini and his colleagues continue to lead this effort. Survivors like Alex Mensah, Kassim, Suraj, Francis Abia, and Silas Odru have shown perseverance.