It’s about recognition, not erasure – Ghanaian blogger Gabs on ‘Akwaaba’ and ‘Oobake’ controversy
Blogger and creative writer Stephen Abban, popularly known as Gabs, has joined the heated conversation surrounding the “Akwaaba” and “Oobake” controversy, urging Ghanaians to reject tribalism and embrace inclusivity.
In a Facebook post, Gabs explained that it took courage for him to weigh in, given the sensitive nature of the issue.
“I consider myself a liberal and open-minded person, someone who avoids being boxed into rigid tribal or ethnic debates.
My relationships with people are shaped by their character and values, not their background,” he wrote.
However, he admitted that the ethnocentrism and tribal bigotry he had witnessed during the discourse compelled him to speak up.
“The tone of this conversation has been deeply troubling,” he said, while acknowledging the contributions of Kukua Apprey, Jay Kwashie, and award-winning journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni.
“Kukua, especially, has been consistent in stressing why the Ga people have a legitimate concern.”
According to Gabs, the Ga community is not seeking to erase “Akwaaba,” which has long been a cultural and international symbol for Ghana.
Instead, they are calling for inclusivity by asking that “Oobake” be added to the signage at Kotoka International Airport and the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum.
“These monuments are on Ga land, yet their cultural identity is being sidelined. How difficult is this to understand?” he asked.
Gabs condemned what he described as superiority and bigotry from sections of the Akan community, noting that mocking the Gas and claiming they have no voice because they “sold their lands” is divisive and shameful.
“The Ga people do not hate Akans, nor are they demanding the erasure of Akwaaba. They are only asking for recognition — for their language and culture to be preserved and respected. Inclusivity is not an attack; it is a call for fairness,” he emphasized.
He further pointed out that the conversation has emboldened other tribes to demand visibility, which he considers a legitimate call for equity rather than hatred.
Gabs ended his statement with an appeal for unity:
“So, once again: the Gas are asking that Oobake be added to the signage at the airport and the mausoleum. That is all. It is a legitimate, reasonable call. Let us reject tribalism and superiority complexes. Let us embrace inclusivity. And above all, let us live as one people.”
