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Popular activist Edmond Abu has sparked public debate after issuing a strong statement questioning Sierra Leone’s national and international commemorative priorities, arguing that some historically significant local events are being overlooked in favour of globally observed observances.
In a widely circulated post, Abu expressed concern that key dates in Sierra Leone’s history particularly those linked to the country’s civil conflict and democratic struggles are not given sufficient national recognition.
He referenced March 23, 1991, the date he described as the first shots fired in Bomaru marking the beginning of the civil war, arguing that it is not adequately commemorated at national level. He contrasted this with the observance of international events such as June 16, known globally as African Child Day.
“If we fail to commemorate 23 March 1991 when the first shot was fired in Bomaru yet we celebrate June 16, it is a tragedy and collective madness on us all,” he stated.
Abu further criticized what he described as selective remembrance of historical tragedies, citing incidents such as the August 18, 1997 and May 8, 2000 events, which he linked to the country’s struggle for democratic restoration and periods of conflict involving students and activists.
He also questioned the emphasis placed on certain public celebrations, including Valentine’s Day and other cultural observances, while arguing that national tragedies such as the January 6, 1999 Freetown attacks do not receive equivalent public commemoration.
“If our government bans our only Lantern Parade on Independence Day April 27, yet fails to commemorate January 6, 1999 when the worst bloodshed happened in our capital… and we still spend money celebrating Valentine’s Day, it is a tragedy and collective madness,” he added.
Abu concluded by announcing plans for civic action, stating that he and other campaigners intend to present a public petition to the government and the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, calling for a review of national observances and proposing the removal of June 16 from the list of public commemorations.
He specifically mentioned President Julius Maada Bio and the Ministry of Education as key institutions they intend to engage.
The remarks have generated mixed reactions online, with some users supporting the call for greater recognition of Sierra Leone’s historical events, while others argue that international observances like African Child Day serve important educational and advocacy purposes.
