Members of Parliament have paid emotional tributes to the late Tamale Central legislator, Dr. Mohamed Mutala Ibrahim, describing him as a man of faith, intellect, and selfless service.
The main statement was read on the floor on Friday by Prof. Seidu Mahama Alidu, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, who succeeded the late lawmaker.
Delivering the tribute, Prof. Alidu said Dr. Murtala’s life was defined not by longevity, but by usefulness and impact.
“The true measure of existence is not found in years, but in usefulness. His immortality lies not in monuments, but in memories,” he stated.
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According to Prof. Alidu, Dr. Murtala Ibrahim was born on December 14, 1974, in Tamale and rose from modest beginnings to become an accomplished academic and public servant.
He traced his education from St. Peter’s Primary School and Ghana Senior High School to the University of Ghana, where he distinguished himself through discipline and excellence.
He described the late MP as a devout Muslim whose leadership was guided by the Qur’an and humility before Allah.
“He prayed not only with his lips, but with his deeds. He led not only with vision, but with values,” he said.
Prof. Alidu highlighted the late MP’s commitment to grassroots development, noting that he initiated several social interventions, including the construction of schools, the establishment of scholarship schemes, the introduction of free BECE classes, the launch of mobile library services, the provision of clean water systems, and sustained support for clinics and road projects across the constituency.
“His work was not just development, it was devotion,” he stressed.
The Tamale Central MP further described Dr. Murtala as “a scholar and a soldier” in Parliament, known for fearless advocacy and moral persuasion.
He noted that as Deputy Minister for Information, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, and later Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, the late MP brought clarity, integrity, and innovation to governance.
“He championed sustainability, digital advancement, and balanced progress with environmental responsibility,” he added.
Prof. Alidu stressed that succeeding the late MP meant continuing his mission rather than replacing him. “He did not pass down a seat. He passed down a standard,” he said.
It’s so painful
In his tribute, Majority Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor said he was devastated by the unexpected loss of his close friend and colleague.
“It’s so painful. Murtala wasn’t sick. He just vanished, disappeared. We never knew that we were losing one of our colleagues,” he said.
Describing the late MP as fearless and principled, Mr. Dafeamekpor said Dr. Murtala Mohammed was a formidable voice both in and outside Parliament, and was known for his strong convictions, passion for public service, and dedication to his constituents.
Kofi Adams recalls PAC partnership
Minister for Sports and member for Buem, Kofi Iddie Adams, recalled meeting Dr. Murtala during his student leadership days and later working with him on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
The late MP, he said, was energetic, resourceful, and committed to accountability.
“Even when we were tired, Mutala brought fresh energy. He always found critical information to support our oversight work,” he said.
Abu Jinapor praises His Intellect and unity
The Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, in his tribute, described Dr. Murtala as a brother and a brilliant academic.
He argued that despite being a strong defender of the NDC, the late MP maintained friendships across party lines.
“He showed us that politics can be done without animosity,” he said.
Habib Iddrisu shares personal spiritual journey
Deputy Minority Whip and MP for Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, delivered an emotional account of his close relationship with the late MP.
He revealed that Dr. Murtala preferred to be called “Alhaji” rather than “Doctor,” emphasizing his spiritual identity. He recounted how they performed Hajj and Umrah together, describing him as deeply committed to Islamic principles.
“He was a father, a teacher, and a guide. I am convinced he is in Jannah,” he said.
He urged MPs to live with clean hearts and mutual respect, reminding them of life’s unpredictability.
Call for integrity and compassion
Across party lines, MPs agreed that Dr. Murtala Ibrahim set a high standard for public service and moral leadership.
Parliament observed that his legacy should inspire lawmakers to govern with empathy, integrity, and devotion to the people.