Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, accompanied by a distinguished delegation of New Patriotic Party (NPP) figures, paid a visit to the bereaved family of the late Highlife music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba. The visit, which took place at the musician’s East Legon residence in Accra, served as a gesture of respect and condolence from the former president and his party to the family of the deceased icon. Arriving mid-afternoon, the delegation included prominent figures such as Frema Osei-Opare, the former Chief of Staff, and several members of parliament, ministers, and party officials. The solemn occasion provided an opportunity for the former president and his entourage to offer their personal condolences to the family and express their profound appreciation for Daddy Lumba’s contributions to Ghanaian music and his specific support for the NPP.
The visit was marked by a formal signing of the Book of Condolence, followed by a brief address from former President Akufo-Addo. He underscored Daddy Lumba’s immense talent and the enduring impact of his music, specifically mentioning the 2008 NPP campaign song, “Nana Winner,” composed and performed by the late musician. Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude for Daddy Lumba’s artistic contribution to the party’s success and reiterated the NPP’s commitment to supporting the family during their time of grief. This personal tribute echoed a previous statement released by the former president, in which he lauded Daddy Lumba as a figure occupying a prominent place in the pantheon of musical greats.
The composition of the delegation reflected the significance of Daddy Lumba’s passing and the respect he commanded across the political spectrum. Among those present were notable figures like Afenyo Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament; Vincent Ekow Assafua, Member of Parliament for Old Tafo; Samuel Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North; Ambrose Dery, the former Minister of the Interior; Dominic Nitiwul, the former Minister of Defence; and Jefferson Sackey, Former Deputy Communications Director at the Presidency. The presence of these high-ranking individuals further emphasized the impact of Daddy Lumba’s legacy and his connection with the political landscape of Ghana.
The delegation also included other influential NPP members and associates. Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, a prominent legal practitioner and political strategist, was present, alongside Fatimatu Abubakar, the former Minister of Information, Martin Adjei Mensah Korsah, Member of Parliament for Techiman South, Asenso Boakye, Member of Parliament for Bantama, Peter Mac Manu, former National Chairman of the NPP, and Dr. Oko Boye, former Member of Parliament for Ledzokuku. The diverse representation across various sectors underscored the wide-reaching influence of Daddy Lumba’s music and his ability to connect with individuals from different spheres of life.
Following the expressions of sympathy and support from the former president and his delegation, Nana Kofi Owusu, the family head, responded on behalf of the bereaved. He expressed gratitude for the visit, acknowledging the show of respect and solidarity from the former president and the NPP. He indicated that further details regarding funeral arrangements and other related matters would be communicated to the public in due course, allowing time for the family to make necessary preparations and ensuring a respectful and appropriate send-off for the late music icon.
The visit by former President Akufo-Addo and the NPP delegation served as a poignant tribute to Daddy Lumba, a music legend whose impact transcended generations and political divides. The gathering provided a moment of reflection on his artistic genius, his contribution to Ghanaian culture, and his specific role in the NPP’s political journey. The presence of prominent figures from various sectors highlighted the respect he commanded and the widespread appreciation for his music. The occasion also offered an opportunity for the former president and the NPP to express their heartfelt condolences and offer support to the grieving family, ensuring that Daddy Lumba’s legacy would be honored and cherished for years to come.
