I call him the father of all, a mentor, a master of the journalism craft, a friend, and much more to everyone—whether small or great, knowledgeable or ignorant, good or bad.
He is Alhaji Abubakari Sidick Ahmed—the man who ushered me into the Radio Univers fraternity through an interview in his ever-open office. His calm yet rich voice created a peaceful atmosphere that immediately made me feel welcome.
Throughout my Univers days, Alhaji, as we all called him, never stopped checking on us in the newsroom and ensuring that work was going on well. His eagerness for us to grow and excel at the job always shone through his eyes.
On a personal level, I was amazed to realise that he was watching keenly and knew my work. He would randomly commend me in the newsroom and express how proud he was of me. Alhaji calling me by my name, “Esenam,” meant the whole world to me. One day, there was an opportunity to interview the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, and there was Alhaji requesting that I go to her office and conduct that interview. That was a great privilege for me as a young reporter at Radio Univers, and I certainly did not take it for granted.
I say all this to demonstrate Alhaji’s deep commitment to contributing to the lives of every individual volunteer and constantly evaluating their progress. Indeed, I can confidently say that such a kind of person is extremely rare. I will forever remember Alhaji Abubakar Sidick Ahmed for his gentleness, which swept like a breeze, calming all.
Beyond my personal encounter with this highly esteemed man, his influence on democracy and media plurality cannot be contained in this piece of writing. Alhaji made a name for himself, and that legacy will resound for years to come.
As the current News Editor, I wish I had more of him, but God knows best. I thank God for such a beautiful gift as Alhaji to Ghana and the world.
Forever in our hearts. Rest well, Alhaji.
—
Eulogy by Esther Esenam Ofori | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Gabriel Tecco Mensah
