President Akufo-Addo has, on behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, paid glowing tribute to Christian Atsu, who was found dead under the rubble of his home almost two weeks after the Turkey earthquake.
In a Facebook post, the President said the Ghana Football Association had lost one of “its finest personnel and ambassadors, one who will be difficult to replace”.
He said the player would be sorely missed and prayed for rest for his soul.
President Akufo-Addo extended heartfelt condolences to the widow, children and family of Christian Atsu.
The Ghana international, 31, went missing after the February 6, 2023 earthquake that caused the collapse of his apartment in Antakya, Hatay.
He was found on Saturday, February 18, 2023.
Atsu had spells with Premier League sides Everton, Chelsea and Newcastle.
He joined Hatayspor in September 2022 after a season with Saudi Arabian team Al-Raed and scored the winning goal in a Super Lig match on 5th February 2023.
He won 65 caps for Ghana and Ghana reach the 2015.
More than 40, 000 people are known to have been killed in the earthquake and aftershocks in southern Turkey and northern Syria.
John Dramani Mahama pays tribute to Christian Atsu
Former President John Dramani Mahama has joined millions of people paying tribute to Black Stars player, Christian Atsu, following the announcement of his death in Turkey on Saturday, February 18, 2023.
The winger had been missing since the February 6, 2023 quake that caused the collapse of his apartment in Antakya, Hatay. More than 40, 000 people are known to have been killed in the earthquake and aftershocks in southern Turkey and northern Syria.
In a tribute, the former President thanked God for the Atsu’s life though short-lived.
His agent Nana Sechere, who has been in Hatay, confirmed the news on Saturday on Twitter, writing: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce to all well-wishers that sadly Christian Atsu’s body was recovered this morning.
“My deepest condolences go to his family and loved ones. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers and support.”
The Ghana international aged 31, had spells with Premier League sides Everton, Chelsea and Newcastle.
He joined Hatayspor in September 2022 after a season with Saudi Arabian team Al-Raed and scored the winning goal in a Super Lig match on 5th February 2023.
He won 65 caps for Ghana and Ghana reach the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final where they lost to Ivory Coast on penalties.
Atsu was later named player of the tournament.
