The final State of the Nation Address delivered by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on January 3, 2025, was punctuated by an unexpected and concerning incident: the sudden collapse of one of his personal bodyguards, Colonel Isaac Amponsah, while on duty within the parliamentary chamber. This dramatic event unfolded shortly after the President commenced his speech, a comprehensive review of his administration’s achievements and a forward-looking perspective on Ghana’s future trajectory. The unexpected nature of Colonel Amponsah’s collapse, occurring without any prior indication of distress, briefly disrupted the proceedings and drew the immediate attention of those present.
Colonel Amponsah, a seasoned and highly trusted member of the Presidential security detail, had been standing guard, maintaining his usual vigilant posture, when he abruptly lost his footing and collapsed. The suddenness of the incident rippled through the assembled audience, generating a palpable sense of concern and prompting swift action from Parliament’s medical team. Trained to respond to such emergencies, the medical personnel rapidly converged on Colonel Amponsah’s location, providing immediate on-site first aid to stabilize his condition.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the medical team subsequently transported Colonel Amponsah to a nearby medical facility for a more thorough evaluation and any necessary treatment. The swift and professional response of the medical team ensured that Colonel Amponsah received prompt and appropriate medical attention, mitigating potential risks and facilitating his recovery. Their actions reflected the preparedness and efficiency of Parliament’s emergency response protocols.
President Akufo-Addo, witnessing the unfolding events, displayed visible concern for his bodyguard’s well-being. He briefly paused his address, momentarily interrupting the flow of his speech, to ensure that Colonel Amponsah was receiving the necessary medical assistance. This gesture underscored the President’s personal connection with his security detail and his concern for their welfare, demonstrating a sense of empathy and care beyond their professional roles.
Despite the unexpected interruption and the understandable concern it generated, the State of the Nation Address resumed after the initial response to Colonel Amponsah’s collapse. President Akufo-Addo, regaining his composure, continued his address, delivering the remainder of his speech without further incident. The President’s ability to refocus and proceed with the address demonstrated his commitment to fulfilling his presidential duties and delivering his final message to Parliament.
The State of the Nation Address, a significant event marking the culmination of President Akufo-Addo’s tenure, proceeded as planned, albeit with the unexpected interlude of Colonel Amponsah’s collapse. The address served as a platform for the President to highlight the progress Ghana had achieved under his leadership, outlining key accomplishments and milestones reached during his time in office. Furthermore, the President’s speech also addressed the challenges that lay ahead for the nation, offering a perspective on the future and the path forward. Despite the dramatic interruption, the address fulfilled its purpose, providing a comprehensive overview of the nation’s state of affairs and the President’s vision for its future.
