Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has revealed that President John Dramani Mahama was a devoted admirer of the late highlife legend, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, describing their relationship as “special and heartfelt.”
He made the remarks when a delegation from the musician’s family visited the Jubilee House on Monday, August 25, to officially announce Lumba’s passing.
“The President loved Daddy Lumba’s songs. When he sat in his car and sang along, you’d be amazed, so this is a great loss to all of us,” Mr. Debrah said.
“I can’t sing like that, so you can see there was a special connection.”
According to him, Lumba’s music carried deep emotional value for many Ghanaians, including the President, resonating in both joyful and sorrowful moments.
He emphasized that the artiste’s legacy transcended generations, leaving an indelible imprint on Ghana’s cultural heritage.
“His songs touched us all, whether in sadness or happiness, Daddy Lumba made a lasting impact,” he noted, assuring that government would stand by the family during this difficult time. “We can’t say we won’t honour him, especially considering how he honoured Ghana with his music.”
Reflecting on the magnitude of the loss, Mr. Debrah added: “If money could save a life, we would have found a way. This is not just a loss for his family but for the entire nation.”
Daddy Lumba passed away in July at The Bank Hospital in Cantonments, Accra. Born on September 29, 1964, he rose to fame in the 1980s and went on to release more than 30 albums, producing timeless classics such as Aben Wo Ha, Theresa, Yentie Obiaa, and Playboy.
