The series of scandals around National Cathedral unbelievable – Alex Segbefia

Director of International Relations for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alex Segbefia has expressed his disbelief at the series of controversies engulfing the construction of the National Cathedral.

Speaking on Newsfile on JoyNews on Saturday, October 21, 2023, Segbefia’s comments come in the wake of the resignations of two esteemed clergymen, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Rev. Eastwood Anaba, from the board of trustees.

Their departure was prompted by the absence of an audit for the project, a request they initially made in January of this year.

Artistic impression of National Cathedra

Mr Segbefia described it as “unbelievable” and pointed out that it reflects negatively on the leadership style of President Nana Addo and the NPP government.

“The kind of scandal around the cathedral, an edifice that is supposed to the glory of God, is unbelievable. And it stands as a blot, a big blot on the leadership style, the leadership of the Nana Addo and the NPP government because they all pushed it and the way and manner in which they went was wrong,” he said.

The NDC member emphasized the importance of asking legitimate questions about such projects.

“We all love our God. We are all Christians. We all go to our churches, don’t vilify people for asking legitimate questions about what you were doing, especially when statements have been made that government funds will not be used and government funds have been used.”

Cathedral under construction

He further commended the leaders of the churches who have taken steps to distance themselves from the project due to apparent mistakes.

Alex Segbefia also added that assessing the situation and taking necessary actions when mistakes are identified is a commendable approach.

“I have no problem with the leaders of the churches who have left previously and currently because I think that at any time you must assess where you are with anything. And if it comes to the fore that mistakes have been made, and the way this is going and I have to come out of it, then kudos to them for knowing that that’s the case.”

In response, Richard Ahiagba, the Director of Communication for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), expressed his surprise regarding the clergymen’s resignations, especially in light of the secretariat’s assertion that audit processes were already initiated for the project.