In brief
Sulemana Abdul Samed, Ghana’s tallest man at 7ft 4in, died in a Tamale hospital at age 33 after complications from Marfan syndrome. Villagers from his home in Gambaga still rush to his house seeking answers, while the national community mourns a beloved figure. A former butcher and community leader, he became a symbol of pride and resilience for his people. The BBC confirmed his height in late 2022, and his death prompted the military to confirm his demise. Amid sadness, friends remember him as generous, cheerful and a source of identity for his village.
The death of Sulemana Abdul Samed, Ghana's tallest man, has prompted an outpouring of grief particularly in the north where his height had made him a local celebrity.
The 33‑year‑old died in a hospital on Monday in Tamale, a city about 160km south of his home village of Gambaga, after sores on his legs had become infected.
A relative, Sulemana Abdul Kudus, told the BBC that everyone knew how generous and kind he was; people still visit his house after his death to learn what happened.
Diagnosed with gigantism in his 20s, he measured 7ft 4in (223cm) when the BBC took measurements in late 2022.
He earned the nickname Awuche – meaning "Let's Go" in Hausa – and struggled with Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder causing longer limbs and joint problems.
Although he could not afford medical bills, a benefactor, Ibrahim Mahama – the brother of former President John Mahama – offered to cover his treatment at Tamale Teaching Hospital.
Kudus explained that the sores were likely complications from his condition, not directly caused by Marfan syndrome.
He had begun to grow rapidly at age 22, and the rapid increase was noticed while he worked at a butchers in Accra, where he first noticed his limbs enlarging.
Despite his health challenges, Awuche maintained a positive outlook and enjoyed the celebrity status he had earned among locals.
The family decided to bury him in Tamale rather than in Gambaga to avoid an overwhelming number of mourners.
Additional reporting by Favour Nunoo
