Numerous tributes have been published since the demise of the venerable Dr. Sidick Abubakari Ahmed, popularly known as Alhaji. My relationship with him was different in many ways because it evolved from a professional one to a personal one.
It was in my second year at the University of Ghana, pursuing my bachelor’s degree, that I first encountered Alhaji. He had returned from South Africa, where he studied at the University of Witwatersrand, to earn his PHD.
Our working relationship will move on to span well over six years, which comprises my remaining three years in pursuing my bachelor’s degree while I served as a volunteer at Radio Univers and then a year as a national service personnel, as well as a year and a half in pursuing my master’s degree at the University of Ghana.
This wonderful period set the pace for a lifetime of memorable relationships. Our greatest bond came during my time as a national service person at Radio Univers, where my initial task was to produce the station’s flagship program “Behind the Headlines, “which was hosted by Alhaji, and subsequently graduated to be the host when Doc was indisposed or out of town.
Alhaji was a gem when he spotted talent and knew how to refine it into industry greats. He took an interest in my personality and nurtured me. He motivated me and encouraged me to improve myself in every aspect of my life.
His counsel influenced my enrolment in the Department of Communication Studies on campus after my national service to pursue a master’s degree. I say the man I knew “differently” because, unlike most people whose working relationship with him was on a professional level, ours quickly moved beyond a professional one to a family bond; He became my father, and I his son.
Alhaji had a great sense of humour. A side he only showed to those he really was comfortable with and trusted, and I was privileged to be one of the few. We will share jokes and make light of some situations, and laugh so hard. It is some of these memories that are ironically making me cry so hard upon hearing about his demise.
Alhaji opened up to me probably more than he did to most people. He told me things that were personal and used his personal experiences in counselling me. I cannot go into detail about some of the things we talked about, but I can certainly share some general impressions.
For instance, he once opened up after I asked him who was the best vice chancellor he had worked with at the University of Ghana during his long period of service at the institution.
He made some very frank remarks, and we laughed off some of them as we attempted to rank from best to worst. He also shared his opinion of Radio Universe’s current management with me after his retirement.
Alhaji helped me build my professional network. Working with him paved the way for me to get to know and become acquainted with, and in some cases, become friends with, prominent people whom I would never have dreamt of meeting.
He never shied away from letting me into his circle to progress professionally. This network has propelled me to higher heights, and I will always be grateful to Alhaji.
Alhaji was there for me in my personal milestones. He hosted my first- and second-degree graduation parties at his on-campus residence. He was present to support me during my engagement/marriage ceremony despite having another pressing political engagement that
very day, but managed to factor me into his plans. Alhaji gave me employment opportunities and personally negotiated my salary at a company he personally recommended me to.
Alhaji was non-discriminatory and treated everyone with respect. He helped not just me but also people with different backgrounds and faiths at various stages of his career.
I shall leave it here for fear of not finding space for publication if I keep writing. The last time I spoke with you, Alhaji, was in December, when you sounded well, and we had a great chat. Unknowingly, that will be our last. I am privileged and honoured to have known you, doc, and I will never forget you, sire. Rest well, Legend.
Philip Asiawo
The writer, is a broadcaster and a Communication Consultant
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