Ghana has lost one of its towering cultural figures with the passing of celebrated playwright and theatre scholar, Dr. Mohammed Ben-Abdallah, at the age of 81.

His death, which occurred on Thursday, September 18, 2025, was announced by his son, Abdul Muiz Abass, in a heartfelt message on Facebook.

“Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un (Surely we belong to Allah and to Him shall we return). With deep sorrow and a heavy heart, I announce the passing of my beloved father, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Abdallah, who returned to his Maker yesterday.

A man of wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith, he served his people, his family, and his country with honour and grace,” the statement read.

Dr. Abdallah was buried in Kumasi on Friday, September 19, immediately after Jumu’ah prayers, in accordance with Islamic tradition.

A three-day Dua will follow, while additional funeral arrangements are expected to take place in Accra at a later date.

Born on April 25, 1944, in Kumasi, Dr. Abdallah began his career as a teacher before pursuing higher studies in theatre at the University of Ghana, Legon.

He went on to earn an MFA in Theatre Arts from the University of Georgia in 1976, followed by a PhD in Theatre Arts from the University of Texas at Austin in 1980.

A pioneer of Ghana’s contemporary theatre, Dr. Abdallah played a central role in shaping the country’s cultural identity.

He was instrumental in establishing the National Theatre of Ghana and its resident companies — the National Drama Company, National Dance Company, and National Symphony Orchestra.

He also served as Head of the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, nurturing generations of artists and scholars.

Dr. Mohammed Ben-Abdallah leaves behind a rich legacy as an academic, playwright, and cultural visionary who used the stage to both entertain and provoke critical reflection on society.