Saturday, February 24, 2024, marked a day of mourning in Ghana as individuals from all walks of life gathered to pay tribute to an illustrious son of the land, Apostle Dr Michael Ntumy, a distinguished recipient of the nation’s highest honour, the Order of the Volta.
As early as 5:00 am, heavy traffic congested Independence Avenue – Castle Road, leading to the State House, where a memorial service was held in his honour before his interment at Krachi, his native town.
Dr Ntumy, undoubtedly a national treasure, was honoured in a manner that surpassed expectations. Ghanaians’ expression of genuine love for him was palpable on what could be described as his final day on earth.
Despite the absence of the President of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who was away on an emergency visit, almost every influential figure in Ghana turned out to pay their last respects to this remarkable man. The gathering included the Vice President, H. E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former President, H.E John Dramani Mahama, ministers of state, church leaders, members of the judiciary, politicians, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries, creating a massive assembly.
As expected, ministers and members of the Church, both within and outside Ghana, came in their numbers to bid farewell to a man who dedicated his entire life to the service of God and The Church of Pentecost, even until his last breath.
SECURITY PRESENCE
The security arrangements for the event were robust; starting from the entry point of the Castle Road (Independence Avenue). The presence of policemen managing traffic congestion was evident all the way to the entrance of the State House. The closer one got to the event venue, the more noticeable the heightened security presence became. Observers along the route could sense that something special was taking place at the State House, prompting inquiries from some casual commercial drivers, “what is happening?”
Upon arrival at the State House, two imposing portraits of the beloved former Chairman welcomed visitors, signaling their arrival at the venue. Inside the forecourt, a multitude of security personnel stood ready, tasked with ensuring the much-needed security for the event.
FILE PAST
Around 6:00 am, the event venue was nearly at full capacity, providing attendees with the chance to pay their respects by filing past the body of the departed church leader. A long-winding queue of mourners filed around the body of Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy. The protocol team, dressed in their distinctive white polo shirts, were faced with the challenging task of managing the crowds and maintaining order at the service. However, this was anticipated, given that the gathering was unlike any other experienced.
A TIME OF GLORIOUS PRAISE
At some point of the service, Elder Dr. Kwasi Mireku and the Voice of Pentecost, the national choir of The Church of Pentecost, took the stage to lead the congregation in choruses. The crowd responded by moving towards the dance floor. The traditional rulers led the way, followed by the clergy and other distinguished personalities. Nana Kofi Abuna, the Chief of Essipong in the Western Region, skillfully led the royal procession. It was a beautiful sight as royal handlers expertly swung the royal umbrellas in the air.
As expected, everyone was on their feet, praising God for gifting the world with the presence of the general for the last 65 years. Congregants waved and tossed white and black handkerchiefs and cloths into the air as they danced around the mortal remains of Apostle Ntumy. The tambourine players showcased their choreographic skills, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It was simply a whole vibe!
There was a brief period of “positive commotion” as patrons thronged the grounds, adding to the euphoria and creating a spirited atmosphere befitting of a Gallant Soldier of the Cross. Admittedly, the atmosphere resembled more of a convention than a funeral service.
RAW EMOTIONS ON DISPLAY
The service took an emotional turn as the bereaved family took a final look at their beloved while filing past his body. Raw emotions were evident as the widow, children, and other relatives of Apostle Ntumy grappled with the reality of bidding farewell to the man who had been a profound blessing to the family.
ARRIVAL OF DIGNITARIES
The event received a significant boost with the arrival of the former President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, and his entourage. The gathering welcomed him with enthusiasm upon his arrival. Upon entering, he promptly paid his respects by filing past the remains of Apostle Dr. Ntumy. Subsequently, he exchanged pleasantries with dignitaries and proceeded to take his seat.
Shortly after, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Frema Opare, followed suit. The Vice President and his entourage also arrived later and filed past the remains of the departed former Chairman.
PREZ’S EULOGY
In a tribute read on his behalf by the Vice President, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stated: “Apostle Dr. Ntumy was an outstanding servant of the Church, the Ghanaian people, and the public interest. His objective was always the advancement of Ghana, and even in his days of ill-health, he continued to make crucial interventions in our nation’s discourse.”
The President emphasised that Apostle Ntumy has left a significant void not only in The Church of Pentecost but also in the wider Christian space, being a constant source of good, rich Christian counsel.
“THE DARLING BOY”
The General Council affectionately referred to Apostle Dr. Ntumy as the “Darling Boy of The Church of Pentecost”, recognising the widespread love he received from the church members.
“God’s Chosen General, Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, whose mortal remains lie before us this morning, conquered nations with the gospel, broke barriers and reached the unreached, built bridges with various churches and para-church organisations, set the pace to elevate The Church of Pentecost to a higher level, thereby gaining national and global prominence. Today, as he ends his divine assignment on earth, we cannot help but salute him for the exploits the Lord used him to do,” the Council’s tribute read.
MORE TRIBUTES POUR IN
The President of The Apostolic Church of Ghana (TAC), Apostle Dr. Aaron Ami-Narh, delivered a tribute on behalf of the TAC, celebrating the life of the former Chairman.
“Today, we gather in solemn commemoration and heartfelt celebration of the life of Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost. In these brief moments, I wish to honour the memory of a person who lived a life filled with love, purpose, and a remarkable enthusiasm and passion for the work of God.”
The Bible Society of Ghana also presented an eulogy for its former President, depicting him as a pillar of faith and a visionary leader who served the Bible Society of Ghana with unwavering dedication.
“He possessed a rare charisma, an affable nature that put everyone at ease. As the youngest ever President of the Bible Society, he brought not just youthful energy but a profound understanding of the Bible and a passion to cause its message to reach every nook and cranny of Ghana,” the tribute read.
More tributes flowed in from the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), the Elim Pentecostal Church, UK, The Church of Pentecost Liberia, and The Church of Pentecost, Germany, among several others.
MADAM MARTHA LAUDED
The General Council of The Church of Pentecost expressed admiration for Madam Martha Ntumy, the wife of the late former Chairman, Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy, commending her for what they deemed an unparalleled dedication to her late husband. They described her as “an inspirational example of resolute will and a tireless spirit.”
In a heartfelt tribute, read on behalf of the Council by the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, Madam Ntumy was praised for the exceptional role that she played during Apostle Ntumy’s 15 years of incapacitation through paralysis.
“Undoubtedly, there were high tides and low tides during those years, but Mama Martha’s tireless support served as an invincible pillar, helping our father navigate through them all. Her commitment was deeply woven into the fabric of endurance and love that held the family together,” the tribute read.
Similar commendations were echoed in Apostle Eric Nyamekye’s sermon during the service and in the tribute delivered by President Nana Akufo-Addo.
“A MAN GREATLY LOVED”
During the event, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, delivered a compelling sermon on the theme “A Man Greatly Loved by God.” Speaking about Apostle Dr. Ntumy and Daniel, he emphasised that both men were deeply loved by God for their lives of service and righteousness. Apostle Nyamekye encouraged all those present, particularly the ministers, to draw inspiration from Apostle Dr. Ntumy’s life and to be ready to serve God even in times of adversity.
FOOD VENDORS CASH IN
The road stretch witnessed a bustling business day for traders. Numerous food vendors set up shops, anticipating substantial earnings from the massive event. In a conversation with PENTECOST NEWS, one vendor revealed that they strategically choose to participate when they sensed a significant event on the horizon. Judging from the enthusiastic atmosphere, they were convinced that this day would be one of those occasions. Scripture says in Psalm 19:12 the righteous shall flourish like a palm tree. This phenomenon adds to the testament of the man, who, even in death, continues to be a source of economic opportunities for people.
A GLORIOUS END
The service ended on a very high note with members of the Executive Council carrying the casket containing the mortal remains of the former Chairman. This was uncharacteristic but a sign of deep honour and reverence for the ‘darling boy.’
The President was definitely spot on when he said in his tribute that “Apostle Dr. Ntumy truly deserves the befitting farewell being accorded him today, in recognition of his social and spiritual services to the growth of Ghana.”
Like Apostle Paul, God’s Chosen General, has fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith to the end. Now what awaits him is the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award him.
