Samson Anyenini, OneGhana Movement renew calls for June 3 victims’ compensation

Samson Lardy Anyenini and the OneGhana Movement are calling for compensation. This is for victims of the June 3, 2015 disaster in Ghana. It was one of the country's worst tragedies.

The disaster happened after heavy rains caused severe flooding at Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra. Floodwaters mixed with leaking fuel from a nearby GOIL station. This led to a catastrophic explosion that killed over 150 people and injured many others.

The OneGhana Movement, led by Senyo Hosi, has held annual commemorations. They have also initiated legal action for justice and compensation. On Channel One TV’s The Point of View, Anyenini reiterated their demand for GHS 42 million.

He emphasized that many victims still need medical care after ten years. Initially, the government covered medical bills and funeral expenses but provided no further compensation. Survivors continue to face lasting physical and economic impacts.

Anyenini stated that the 2015 committee report identified 154 dead and many injured. Some survivors suffer permanent disfigurement and cannot work anymore. He noted that while the state paid initial costs, ongoing support has been lacking.

He expressed concern about the government's failure to implement recommendations from the disaster report. He questioned which parts of the report have been acted upon since then.

The lawsuit targets several agencies, including Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and GOIL's owner Thompson Obeng Anane.

Key Facts About the June 3 Disaster:

The Fire:
Floodwaters caused a fuel leak at a GOIL station near Nkrumah Circle. People had sought shelter there during heavy rains. The leaked fuel ignited due to a cigarette or electrical fault, causing an explosion.

The Floods:
Torrential rains led to severe flooding across Accra. Poor drainage systems worsened the situation as garbage blocked waterways. Many roads were submerged, trapping people in vehicles or buildings.

Casualties:
Over 150 people died, with hundreds more injured. Many bodies were burned beyond recognition, complicating identification efforts.

Location:
The disaster's epicenter was at the GOIL station near Nkrumah Circle but affected much of Accra.