Daddy Lumba Remembered: Veteran Sports Journalist Abatey Tears Up in Honour of Music Icon
- Ghana continues to mourn the unexpected passing of legendary Highlife icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu
- Tributes have flooded in from across the country since the heartbreaking news broke on Saturday, July 26
- Among the first to pay their respects was a renowned sports broadcaster, who signed the Book of Condolence at Lumba’s private residence
Veteran sports journalist Kofi Asare Brako, widely known as Abatey, could not contain his emotions as he signed the Book of Condolence in memory of Highlife legend Daddy Lumba.
Dressed in solemn black, he arrived at the private residence of the late musician, not just as a media personality, but as a lifelong admirer bidding farewell to a personal hero.
Source: Twitter
Kofi Asare Brako cries as he honours Daddy Lumba
The moment he sat before the Book of Condolence, memories flooded in: the music, the voice, and the messages in the songs.
After signing, journalists approached him for a few words, and emotion took over. His voice trembled as he spoke, his eyes welled up, and then the tears flowed.
"Wa yɛ wa fɛm diɛ, Ghana da wa si," he said through sobs. It means, “You have done your part; Ghana is grateful for your works.”
For Abatey, the loss felt personal. He revealed that he had recently been unwell but had recovered.
That gave him hope that Daddy Lumba would bounce back, too. But life had other plans. As he reflected, he recalled timeless songs that had shaped his life.
One in particular stood out, Adwoa Penaman, a melody that still stirs emotions decades later.
Before leaving, he offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, especially Lumba’s wife and children, who now carry the weight of his absence.
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Background of Daddy Lumba’s death
The entire country has been plunged into sorrow since news of Daddy Lumba’s passing broke.
According to the BBC, the legendary musician, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness.
His wife rushed him to the Bank Hospital in Cantonments, Accra. Sadly, he did not make it, according to Hindustan Times.
A statement from his family confirmed the devastating news.
"With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana's beloved musical icon, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness," the statement read.
Source: Twitter
To honour his memory, a Candlelight Vigil Night has been planned under the leadership of the Creative Arts Agency.
This event will bring fans and the community together to celebrate a life that touched millions through music.
The vigil will be held at Independence Square in Accra on Saturday, August 2, starting at 6:00 pm.
As Ghana prepares to gather in tribute, one thing is clear: Daddy Lumba may be gone, but his voice, his legacy, and his impact will echo for generations to come.
Movement for Change: Lumba’s legacy lives on
A civic group known as Movement for Change has paid glowing tribute to the legendary Daddy Lumba, describing him as more than a musician, a symbol of Ghanaian identity.
They credited his music for giving voice to the everyday joys, struggles, and love stories of Ghanaian life. From “Aben Wo Ha” to “Sika Asem,” his songs weren’t just hits, they were cultural touchstones that shaped how people felt, danced, and celebrated their roots.
His ability to connect generations through music made him a unifying figure during key moments in Ghana’s history.
In their tribute, the group urged Ghanaians not to let his legacy fade into silence. Instead, they called for a national playlist revival, encouraging fans to keep playing his music at events, on the radio, and in everyday life.
They also proposed a nationwide “Lumba Day” to celebrate his artistry annually, cementing his place not just in music, but in the soul of the nation.
Kofi Asare Brako shares testimony of healing through faith
In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh shared that renowned sports journalist Kofi Asare Brako revealed he had suffered a debilitating stroke.
In an emotional live radio appearance, Brako tearfully expressed his regret for not giving his life to Jesus Christ sooner. Now on a renewed path, Abatey has dedicated himself to spreading hope, faith, and the message of God.
Source: YEN.com.gh
