Nana Akufo-Addo has condemned as “cowardly” the terrorist attack on Ivory Coast’s Grand Bassam which killed at least 16 people.

“Like all Ghanaians, I have been deeply shocked and saddened by Sunday's news of a terrorist attack on the ancient Ivorian town of Grand Bassam, which led to the tragic loss of 16 lives and left dozens injured,” Mr Akufo-Addo said.

“I condemn these despicable and cowardly attacks, and extend my deepest condolences to the families of the dead and wounded,” the leader of Ghana’s biggest opposition party said in a statement.

“This attack confirms the fears of many that terrorists are widening their scope of operation in West Africa, with Mali and Burkina Faso being recent targets, and is a stark reminder of the threat of global terrorism. We are, therefore, duty bound, as a member state of ECOWAS and as peaceful neighbours of the good people of Cote d’Ivoire, to help combat this menace.

“The Ivorian people, and, indeed, my good friend, President Alassane Ouattara, have the solidarity of all Ghanaians and of all peace-loving people in Africa. In times like these, citizens of Côte d'Ivoire need to be assured with deeds, not just words, that the world stands with them and stands ready to support them in the necessary fight against such evil.

“God bless Cote d’Ivoire, God bless Ghana, and God bless Mother Africa,” the former Minister of Foreign Affairs added.