Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes, former NPP National Chairman, dies at 98

Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes, a foundational figure of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former National Chairman, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the age of 98. A distinguished lawyer and diplomat, Odoi-Sykes is most remembered for leading the party to its first general election victory in the Fourth Republic during the 2000 elections. His leadership during his tenure as chairman from 1998 to 2001 is credited with unifying the party and paving the way for the presidency of John Agyekum Kufuor.

Throughout his extensive career in public service, Odoi-Sykes served as the Member of Parliament for Ashiedu Keteke and held the position of Minority Leader in the legislature. His diplomatic contributions were equally significant; he served as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada from 2001 to 2006 and held various other roles within the Foreign Service. He was widely respected for his principled approach to governance and his commitment to Ghana's democratic development.

Tributes have been led by the NPP flag bearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who praised Odoi-Sykes as a pillar of the party and a dedicated statesman. Bawumia emphasized the late chairman's foundational role in the NPP and his lifelong devotion to public service. Other colleagues, including Ambassador Edward A. Boateng, highlighted his reputation as a unifier and a humble leader who consistently placed national interests above partisan politics.

Odoi-Sykes is survived by his wife and four children. As the nation and the NPP mourn his passing, he is being remembered as a stabilizing force whose political strategy and integrity helped shape the modern political landscape of Ghana. The family is expected to announce funeral arrangements in the coming days.