The family of the late statesman and philanthropist, Dr. Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda, has reaffirmed its commitment to honouring his religious wishes and preserving the integrity of his legacy, following what it described as an “unauthorised” funeral being planned in his name.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, Alhaji Mohammed Abu Banda, Head of the Abu Banda Family and Chief of Banda in the Ashanti Region, expressed deep concern over a separate funeral event allegedly being organised by one Alhaji Abdullah Khalifa, also known as Alhaji Abomour.
He emphasized that the late Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda had clearly expressed his final wishes before his passing on March 1, 2025, including his desire to be buried at the mosque he built at Airport Residential Area—a wish that the family has fulfilled in accordance with Islamic principles.
“My duty as family head is to honour my brother’s religious commitments, and we have done just that. His burial at his mosque was not only his desire, but also a testament to the life of devotion he led,” Alhaji Mohammed stated.
He categorically disassociated the family from the funeral said to be taking place at the State House, noting that it neither reflects the wishes of the deceased nor the family’s plans.
“We urge the public to disregard this event. It is not sanctioned by the State or the Abu Banda family. Alhaji Khalifa is not a member of our family and has no authority to organise a funeral in our name,” he said.
The family has instead invited the public to the official 40-day funeral prayer service of the late Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda, scheduled for Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at the Airport Residential Area Mosque. The event will be led by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, with Quranic recitations in honour of the late philanthropist.
Alhaji Mohammed revealed that the late Alhaji Banda had also made arrangements for a dual mausoleum, requesting that his wife of 51 years, Mrs. Cassandra Asoma Banda, be laid to rest beside him when the time comes.
“This reflects the deep bond they shared and the values they held dear,” he noted.
The family extended its heartfelt appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and Chief Imam Sheikh Sharubutu for their support during the burial, reaffirming their resolve to uphold the wishes of the late Alhaji Asoma Abu Banda with dignity, honour, and respect.
