Dr. Abubakari Sidick Ahmed, former Station Manager of Radio Univers and a respected figure in Ghana’s media space, has left behind a legacy rooted in justice, fairness and principled leadership.
His life constantly reminded those around him of a simple but powerful belief: you do not correct illegality using illegality.
Dr. Ahmed passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre after a short illness.
Famously called “Alhaji,” he was widely admired for his calm leadership, humility and strong commitment to peace, justice and good governance.
Throughout his career, he supported initiatives that promoted dialogue, resolved conflicts and strengthened unity within institutions and communities.
A mentor who shaped generations
At Radio Univers, Dr. Ahmed was more than a manager. He was a mentor who invested deeply in people. Many young volunteers who passed through the station credit him for shaping their professional values and careers.
Today, several respected media personalities reflect his influence, including veteran broadcaster Bernard Avle, television personality Giovani Caleb and investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, among many others.
His leadership style combined discipline with compassion. He demanded excellence but never lost sight of the human side of mentorship. For many students and young broadcasters, Radio Univers became a training ground not only for journalism but also for character.
A lesson that stayed forever
The phrase “You do not correct illegality using illegality” perfectly captures Dr. Ahmed’s philosophy.
I remember a personal encounter with him one morning during Campus Exclusive, a flagship morning programme on Radio Univers.
At the time, tensions were high following the relocation of Commonwealth Hall residents to diaspora halls. While some students called for an unauthorised demonstration, Alhaji encouraged calm and lawful engagement.
He firmly advised that injustice must be addressed through lawful means, not through actions that could worsen the situation.
His words were simple, yet powerful: “You do not correct illegality using illegality.”
That lesson has stayed with me since my days in Commonwealth Hall.
A legacy of peace and service
As we honour his memory, we recognise his contribution not only to campus life at the University of Ghana but also to Ghana’s broader democratic and media development.
Alhaji believed leadership was about service. He chose integrity over popularity and principle over convenience.
His influence continues to live on through the journalists he trained, the values he defended and the peace he helped sustain within the university community.
His life reminds us that true leadership is measured not by titles or recognition, but by the courage to stand for what is right, especially when it is difficult.
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Story by Gideon Senator Xorvi | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
