Ghanaian playwright and renowned scholar Dr. Mohammed ben Abdallah dies at 81
Renowned Ghanaian playwright and theatre scholar Dr. Mohammed ben Abdallah passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the age of 81.
His daughter, Dr Akosua Abdallah, a veteran actress and lecturer at the University of Ghana, announced his passing in a Facebook post on Friday, September 19, 2025. Dr. Abdallah will be laid to rest on Friday after Jumu’ah prayers in Kumasi, following Islamic customs, with a 3-day Dua also scheduled in the city.
She wrote: “Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un (Surely we belong to Allah and to Him shall we return). With profound sorrow, 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, family, and country with honor and grace.
He will be laid to rest today, Friday, following Jumu’ah prayers in Kumasi, in accordance with Islamic rites.
The 3-day Dua will also be held in Kumasi. Details of the Accra arrangements will be shared in due course.
“Please remember him in your prayers. May Allah forgive his shortcomings, illuminate his grave, and grant him the highest rank in Jannah. Ameen.”
Dr. Mohammed ben Abdallah was a renowned Ghanaian playwright and theatre scholar born on April 25, 1944, in Kumasi. His academic journey began with a Teacher’s Certificate ‘A’ from Wesley College, Kumasi, followed by a diploma in Drama and Theatre Studies from the University of Ghana, Legon.
He furthered his education in the United States, earning an MFA in Theatre Arts from the University of Georgia in 1976 and a PhD in Theatre Arts from the University of Texas at Austin in 1980.
As a pivotal figure in Ghana’s cultural landscape, Dr. Abdallah played a crucial role in the creation of the National Theatre of Ghana. He oversaw its construction, developed its organizational framework, and established resident companies, including the National Drama Company, National Dance Company, and Pan – African Orchestra. Additionally, he served as Head of the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana.School supplies
Dr. Abdallah’s theatrical style uniquely blended traditional African performance with European elements, often reflecting postcolonial themes. His notable works include ¹:
Theatrical Productions:
The Trial of Mallam Ilya (1982-1983)
Verdict of the Cobra (1984-present)
The Slaves (1984-1985)
The Fall of Kumbi
Publications:
“The Trial of Mallam Ilya and Other Plays” (1987)
“Land of A Million Magicians” (1993)
Beyond the arts, Dr. Abdallah served as Secretary for Education and Culture under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) in the 1980s and 1990s. His tenure saw the implementation of the National Education Reform Programme, aimed at expanding access to education and enhancing quality
