KODA: An-all white affair as a ‘General’ is laid to rest (PICTURES&VIDEOS)

“Heaven called you a ‘GENERAL’ because you finished your race. It didn’t matter what age you were; you deserved the rank because you accomplished your purpose”, a part of the tribute by KODA’s sister, Rev Ama Wilberforce read.

Perhaps, the many mourners who thronged the Dominion Centre of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) at Spintex road in Accra to bid their final farewell to KODA shared similar sentiments.

Dressed in radiant all-white attire, the vast assembly of mourners transformed the occasion into a jubilant celebration of KODA's victorious homecoming, rather than a somber farewell to a life cut short at 45. 

This perspective was eloquently reinforced by Rev. Andy Yawson of KICC Dominion Centre, who emphasized in his sermon that some events in life, including KODA's untimely passing, defy human understanding.

Quoting the bible verses of Psalm 91, Psalm 68:5 and 2Corinthians 1:4, Rev Yawson explained that Christians must always believe in God during challenges or when confronted with situations they don’t have an answer to. 

He mentioned that just like KODA, many “soldiers of God’s army” have equally died at their prime age and only God had answers to such uncomfortable and challenging situations adding, “Pastors don’t have answers to every situation.”

Earlier and in an atmosphere filled with emotions, the wife, family, children read their tributes in the deceased’s honour. 

In her tribute, KODA’S wife, Ewurama Duah Anto acknowledged his care and love for their children.

“I will always bless the day I met you. We shared happy and sad moments together which led to a long-lasting bond between us that words cannot express.

 “You were the best of husbands any wife could pray for and the best of father any child could pray for. You were a good man sweety, I am forever grateful to God that I found you,” she said.

 “As believers, we rejoice in the fact that you are still alive in heaven. Praise be to Jesus who died to give us eternal life knowing that one day we will all live again. Till we meet again sweety, we will miss you.

“But I am consoled that one day we shall see that walk, talk and smile of yours again. Rest in perfect peace, my love”.

It was an emotionally charged atmosphere when Rev Andy Yawson gave the final announcements, including time for the pallbearers to carry the coffin into the hearse for the final walk.

The atmosphere turned somber as the All-Star performers took the stage to render a heartfelt rendition of KODA's iconic song, "Yesu Edi Nkunim". 

 The performance resonated deeply with mourners, many of whom had seen the same phrase - "Yesu Edi Nkunim" (meaning "Jesus is Victorious") - emblazoned on the rear number plate of the hearse that carried KODA's remains, serving as a final farewell message.

A number of gospel artistes including Nii Okai, Joe Mettle, Nacee, Daughters of Glorious Jesus, Mary Ghansah, Elder Mireku, Sonnie Badu, Diana Hamilton, Perez Muzik, Ruth Adjei among others were present to pay their final respect to a brother. 

There were also performances by Joe Mettle, Nii Okai, Elder Mireku and Koded band.

The esteemed Takoradi-based musician died on Sunday, April 21, 2024, after a brief illness. He had three children namely Aaron, David and Abigail.

KODA's music legacy includes hits like "Nsempii", "Nkwa Abodoo", "Yapai" and "Adorso".

He produced music for the likes of the late Danny Nettey, Ps. Joe Beechem, Nii Okai, Halal Afrika, Eugene Zuta, and more.

More pictures and videos below: