Social media mourns Ghanaian radio CEO reportedly killed in Russia-Ukraine war

Tributes have been pouring in on social media following reports that Ghanaian media entrepreneur Samuel Awatey, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dofopa 105.1 FM, has died while fighting in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War.

According to multiple social media reports of which GhanaWeb cannot confirm at the moment, Awatey was among three Ghanaians killed in a drone strike while fighting on the Russian side of the conflict.

Details surrounding the incident remain limited but the attack is said to have occurred on the battlefield.

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The news of Awatey’s death was reportedly confirmed by his close friend, Emmanuel Ayirebi Woyome, who disclosed in an interview that Awatey had earlier told him he was travelling to Russia on a business trip in December 2025.

According to Woyome, the true situation only became known after Awatey’s pregnant wife reportedly received confirmation of his death from his agent in Russia.

He explained that neither he nor many of Awatey’s close associates were aware that the media entrepreneur had joined the Russian military.

The news has sparked widespread mourning online, particularly within Ghana’s media fraternity.

A former colleague, DJ Nature, for instance, paid tribute to Awatey, popularly known as “Swallow,” describing him as a passionate and supportive media leader.

In a social media post, DJ Nature expressed sadness over the sudden loss, noting that Awatey had left Ghana about three months ago in search of better opportunities abroad but tragically lost his life during the conflict.

Many other social media users have also shared condolences, remembering him for his contributions to the broadcasting industry and for the opportunities he created for young media professionals.

Read some of the messages below:

AM/AE

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