The Deputy Minister for Tourism Culture and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie, has paid a visit to the family of the late, Bishop Bob Okala, known in private life as, Samuel Kwadwo Buabeng, at his residence at Amasaman in Accra.
Last Thursday’s visit, was to mourn with the family of the veteran comedian, who reportedly collapsed on stage during a show at Koforidua, and died later at the Koforidua Regional Hospital early Sunday, March 12.
The deputy minister, who in the early 90s, worked with the late entertainer, was accompanied by producer of the popular Key Soap Concert party, Anastasia Agbeyagah.
Speaking to the family, Madam Gomashie said, “it was a real tragedy to come to terms with the news that the man who brought so much joy to Ghanaian homes is no more”.
She was particularly dejected that, within a short period, several members of the creative arts, have died at a time when the industry was growing and being given the right attention and recognition.
She prayed that Okala’s death, ends any bad news hovering around anyone in the industry.
She said in the past, the industry did not have a ministry, but now same cannot be said and wished that those who have paid their dues over the past decades, would live to see and contribute in whichever way to its growth.
According to the deputy minister, it is regrettable that, the likes of Rev. Eddy Coffie, president of the Ghana Actors Guild, Solomon Sampah, Nkomode and now Bob Okala, within a short period of time, are no more around to entertain Ghanaians. Nkomode who died on February 5 this year, is also yet to be buried.
Both Bishop Bob Okala and Nkomode, used to fiercely contest for “Who Is Who” in the Key Soap Concert Party show, thrilling Ghanaian watchers and fans with very hilarious stage comedy. While, Bob Okala, who was 62 years, is believed to have died from heart attack, Nkomode, is said to have died from a tumor-related illness.
The deputy minister, a veteran actress, inspired the family to stay united, especially at this difficult time and trust in the Lord.
Madam Dzifa, presented boxes of bottled water as tradition demands and an undisclosed amount of money to Bob Okala’s widow, Madam Yaa Serwaa.
Bob Okala, was among some entertainers, who reenacted the Gold Coast police performance during Ghana’s 59th Independence Day Celebrations at the Black Star Square in Accra.
Source: Mustapha Inusah
