Ghana is in mourning following the death of Sulemana Abdul Samed, a beloved figure whose extraordinary height and warm personality made him a local icon.
The 33-year-old, popularly known as “Awuche” meaning “Let’s Go” in Hausa died on Monday at a hospital in Tamale, where he had been receiving treatment for infected sores on his legs. His passing has triggered an outpouring of grief, particularly in his hometown of Gambaga, where residents remember him as both a symbol of pride and a man of remarkable kindness.
Relatives described him as generous and widely admired. According to family accounts, mourners have continued to visit his home, seeking clarity and paying their respects. “Everyone is just sad,” a family member said, reflecting the mood across the community.
Diagnosed in his 20s with complications linked to Marfan syndrome, Awuche’s condition caused rapid and unusual growth. When measured in 2022, he stood at 7 feet 4 inches (223 cm), though it is believed he may have grown even taller before his death. His condition also led to serious health challenges, including difficulty walking and a curved spine.
Despite these struggles, Awuche maintained a positive outlook on life and embraced his status as a public figure. His towering presence brought national attention to Gambaga, giving the small town a unique identity. “Anywhere he went, he proudly said he was from Gambaga,” a relative noted, adding that his fame elevated the community’s profile.
In recent months, he had received support from businessman Ibrahim Mahama, who stepped in to assist with medical expenses and treatment at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Reports had indicated he was responding to treatment before his sudden passing.
Awuche’s life was marked by both hardship and resilience. Once an active young man who enjoyed sports and aspired to become a driver, his condition eventually forced him to abandon those dreams. Yet, he remained widely admired for his strength, humility, and ability to inspire others.
His family has announced that he will be buried in Tamale, citing concerns that Gambaga could be overwhelmed by the number of mourners expected to attend.
As tributes continue to pour in, many across Ghana remember Sulemana Abdul Samed not just for his extraordinary height, but for the generosity and spirit that truly made him stand tall.
