Abrefa Dehyepa
In the fleeting passage of our numbered days, we often find ourselves grappling with the weight of sorrow and trouble, as expressed in the somber words: “Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away… Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
As I reflect on the days when I sought to lead as the local NUGS President of the University of Education, Winneba, Ajumako campus, memories flood back of a time when support and friendship were embodied in the dedicated efforts of individuals who believed in a shared cause.
At the forefront of this support was Ibrahim Mayor Lamptey, a stalwart companion who donned the hats of both manager and personal assistant. Mayor’s commitment knew no bounds — tirelessly moving from classrooms, lecture halls, and every nook of the campus to spread my message and distribute my flyers. A friend so committed.
Beside Mayor stood Nana Abrefa Kumi Dehyepa, a virtual presence in an era dominated by active Facebook groups and minimal WhatsApp interactions. Abrefa, residing off-campus, took it upon himself to navigate hostels and homes and eloquently conveying my message with his exceptional writing skills on social media platforms.
I often express gratitude to those who have touched my life, but it pains me immensely to pen these words when the one I wish to appreciate can no longer read them.
I am shattered.
News circulated, whispers of a tragedy, but I clung to the hope that it was yet another case of fake information—something Abrefa himself fought against with his pen. Alas, the bitter reality is that my brother and friend is no more.
This isn’t cool, not cool at all.
The loss of such a brilliant young man with a promising future is incomprehensible. While deaths rarely hit me, this one, I cannot fathom.
Nana Abrefa Kumi Dehyepa, in the realm of words, was a luminary. His ability to string words together, conveying both emotive and persuasive messages, was beyond par. Abrefa wasn’t just a writer; he was a modern-day William Shakespeare, a bright blossoming talent in the art and creativity industry. His captivating poems, stage play directing, and production painted a vivid picture of his artistic prowess.
He was an ardent political ideologue and also a firm believer in the rich culture and traditions of Ghana. His writings echoed his deep connection to the roots, and his commitment to upholding the values that define our nation was palpable.
Abrefa’s commitment extended to students’ welfare, evident in his role as the Public Relations Officer of the Students Representative Council of UEW. In this capacity, he exhibited dexterity and diligence in his work, advocating for the well-being of his fellow students. His efforts resonated not just through the words he penned but also in the actions he took to ensure that student concerns were heard and addressed. Abrefa’s legacy, therefore, encompasses not only his artistic brilliance but also his dedication to the betterment of the student community.
As I pen these words, I’m haunted by the void left by the departure of a friend, a poet, a colleague, and a staunch advocate for our cultural heritage. Abrefa, your legacy lives on, imprinted in the words you crafted and the convictions you held dear.
So why did you choose this path? This isn’t cool, my brother.
Not cool at all.
By Nana Kwasi Asuman-Frimpong
