BY Daniel Bampoe
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid a personal visit to the East Legon residence of the late Ghanaian music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, to commiserate with his family following the icon’s passing a week ago.
In an emotional tribute delivered during the visit on Friday, August 1, 2025, President Akufo-Addo described Daddy Lumba not just as a gifted musician but as “a national treasure” whose voice and music shaped the cultural and emotional fabric of Ghana for decades.
“His music brought joy, comfort and inspiration to countless lives,” the President said, recounting how Lumba’s songs personally sustained him during the most difficult moments of his political journey.
“I often listened to his music during long and lonely nights on campaign trails in Damongo and other parts of the country. His words gave me strength,” Akufo-Addo recalled.
Daddy Lumba’s contribution to former President Akufo-Addo’s political life, however, extended beyond emotional inspiration.
He played a pivotal role in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) election campaigns over the years, composing official campaign songs for Akufo-Addo in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 elections.
These songs, blending patriotism and popular appeal, became rallying cries for the party and helped energize supporters across the country.
Their relationship transcended politics. President Akufo-Addo revealed that after finally meeting Lumba in person, they developed a warm personal friendship grounded in mutual respect.
“I held him in high regard both as an artist and as a human being,” the President noted.
In a written statement earlier released following news of the musician’s passing, Akufo-Addo mourned the death of his “dear friend and renowned music icon,” describing Lumba as “a pantheon among musical greats of all time.”
He praised Lumba’s lasting impact on the nation and his enduring connection with Ghanaians of all backgrounds.
“His hit-making songs will remain lasting contributions to my presidential journey and will forever be etched in the annals of the New Patriotic Party’s political campaign history,” he wrote.
Former President Akufo-Addo ended his tribute with a solemn prayer: “May he peacefully rest in the Bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again.”
Daddy Lumba’s death has sent shockwaves across the country and the Ghanaian diaspora, with fans, political leaders, entertainers, and traditional rulers all paying homage to the man who, for decades, stood as a giant in the Ghanaian music industry.
