The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced the death of Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes, describing him as an eminent statesman, distinguished diplomat, patriot and one of the founding pillars of the party.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, and signed by National Chairman John Boadu, the NPP expressed “profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss” following the passing of the veteran politician and diplomat.
The party said Ambassador Odoi-Sykes devoted several decades of his life to serving Ghana and advancing democratic governance, earning the admiration and respect of colleagues across the political divide through his commitment to public service and constitutional democracy.
Ambassador Odoi-Sykes served as the Member of Parliament for Ashiedu Keteke, now Odododiodioo, during Ghana’s Third Republic.
He subsequently rose to become Minority Leader of Parliament, where the NPP said he distinguished himself through parliamentary leadership and advocacy for democratic ideals.
The party described him as one of the key figures who helped establish the institutional and ideological foundations of the NPP.
According to the party, his contribution became particularly significant during his tenure as National Chairman from 1998 to 2001.
The NPP said his leadership during that period helped unite and strengthen the party ahead of the 2000 general elections, which culminated in the party’s historic victory and the first democratic transfer of power between political parties under Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
Following the NPP’s electoral victory in 2000, Ambassador Odoi-Sykes continued his service to the country in the diplomatic arena.
He served as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada from 2001 to 2006, where the NPP said he represented the country with distinction and contributed to strengthening Ghana’s diplomatic relations.
The party noted that his public service extended beyond elected office and diplomatic assignments, with the late ambassador serving on several national and party committees throughout his career.
His contributions, the NPP said, provided successive generations of party leaders with valuable counsel, strategic guidance and institutional memory.
The NPP described Ambassador Odoi-Sykes’ integrity, humility, intellect and commitment to Ghana’s democratic development as qualities that would continue to inspire generations.
“His passing marks the end of an illustrious chapter in Ghana’s political history,” the party said.
“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.”
The party further said his contribution to Ghana extended beyond partisan politics, emphasising his commitment to constitutional democracy and principled political leadership.
The NPP extended its condolences to the late ambassador’s wife, children, the Odoi-Sykes family, friends, associates and all others mourning his death.
The party prayed for strength, comfort and fortitude for the bereaved family during the period of mourning.
While expressing sadness over his death, the NPP said his life should also be celebrated as one marked by service to God, country and the party.
“Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes has indeed paid his dues,” the statement said, adding that his legacy of principled leadership, patriotism and selfless service would remain part of Ghana’s democratic history.
The party prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and expressing hope that his memory would continue to inspire generations to come.
Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes’ death adds another significant loss to Ghana’s political history, particularly for the NPP, where he is remembered as one of the figures who helped shape the party and guide it to its landmark 2000 electoral victory.
By 1960news.com
