NPP Loses Founding Father and Former Chairman Odoi-Sykes

It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that we have received the news of the passing of Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes, an eminent statesman, distinguished patriot, accomplished diplomat, and one of the founding pillars of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Ambassador Odoi-Sykes devoted several decades of his life to the service of Ghana and the cause of democratic governance. His constant dedication to public service, constitutional democracy, and principled political leadership earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues across the political divide.

His remarkable record of national and party service speaks to a life dedicated to duty and excellence.

He served as a Member of Parliament for Ashiedu Keteke (now Odododiodoo) during the Third Republic and subsequently rose to become Minority Leader of Parliament, where he distinguished himself through exemplary parliamentary leadership and advocacy for democratic ideals.

As a founding father of the New Patriotic Party, Ambassador Odoi-Sykes played a pivotal role in laying the institutional and ideological foundations of the Party.

His leadership as National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (1998–2001) was instrumental in uniting and strengthening the Party, culminating in its historic electoral victory in the year 2000 and the first democratic transfer of power between political parties under the Fourth Republic.

Following this landmark achievement, he continued his distinguished service to the Republic as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada from 2001 to 2006, where he represented the nation with distinction and further enhanced Ghana’s diplomatic relations abroad.

Throughout his lifetime, Ambassador Odoi-Sykes served on numerous national and party committees, offering wise counsel, strategic leadership, and invaluable institutional memory. His integrity, humility, intellect, and constant commitment to Ghana’s democratic development will remain an enduring source of inspiration for present and future generations.

His passing marks the end of an illustrious chapter in Ghana’s political history. The nation has lost a distinguished public servant, while the New Patriotic Party has lost one of its most respected elder statesmen and steadfast architects.

On behalf of the Party, we extend our deepest condolences to his wife, children, the entire Odoi-Sykes family, friends, associates, and all who mourn this great loss. We pray that the Almighty God grants them strength, comfort, and fortitude during this difficult period.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life exceptionally lived in faithful service to God, country, and the Party. Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes has indeed paid his dues, and his legacy of principled leadership, patriotism, and selfless service will forever remain etched in the annals of Ghana’s democratic history.