Ghana’s independence on March 6, 1957, is much noted as the kick-off point for the total liberation of many African countries against colonialism.
The freedom from British colonialists, is often attributed to Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, which is not totally wrong.
It may not be intentional; it may be because of the lack of knowledge that there were some other Ghanaians who played an active part to achieve and better Nkrumah’s goal of ‘self government now’.
Let’s take a look at 5 prominent people that aided Dr. Kwame Nkrumah officially or unofficially in the Independence struggle :
1. Nii Kwabena Bonnie : It is believed that Ghana’s eventual independence in 1957, actually gathered momentum in the late 1940’s — triggered by the chief of Osu Alata, Nii Kwabena Bonnie.
2. J.B. Danquah : His influence on Ghana’s struggle for independence cannot be underestimated, as he became a member of the Legislative council in 1946, pursuing ‘self government within the shortest possible time’.
3. The 3 murdered ex-service men : These men embarked on a protest march with other veterans in a quest to grapple for their benefits as ex-service men of the World War II. They were shot because they led the procession, fighting for the right.
4. Ebenezer Ako Adjei : This fellow was part of the famous ‘Big Six’, that spearheaded Ghana’s independence struggle. He is credited as the one of the people who rallied behind Kwame Nkrumah in the Independence thirst.
5. Rebecca Naa Dedei Aryeetey : Naa Aryeetey, also known as Dedei Ashikishan, was a business woman, political activist and a feminist. She was a popular flour dealer in Accra, and a chief financier of the then CPP party and, also, led CPP women activities at Kokomlemle, where she lived. Dedei helped Nkrumah win the Ashiedu Keteku legislative council seat, which enabled him to become the first Prime Minister of Ghana.
