The mortal remains of the late renowned playwright Efo Kodjo Mawugbe has been laid to rest at the Osu cemetery Friday, October 28, after a State funeral at the forecourt of the State House. The funeral attracted hundreds of personalities from all spheres of life including Elvis Afryie Ankrah, Deputy Minister of Local Government, Kobby Acheampong, Deputy Minister of Interior, former Education Minister, Alex Tettey-Enyo, Professor and poet Atukwei Okine and veteran actress Madam Grace Nortey. The award-winning playwright died on Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital after a protracted battle against prostate cancer and paralysis. His funeral was preceded with a 'wake-keeping' by friends and loved ones at the National Theatre Thursday night. Efo, as he is affectionately called, was renowned for his writing prowess in drama. He was winner of the BBC's International Radio Playwriting Competition 2009 with his play, The Prison Graduates which was selected out of 12,000 entries across the world. President John Evans Atta Mills, whose tribute, was read on his behalf by Mr Alexander Asum-Ahensah, Minister of Chieftaincy and Culture said “Efo Kodjo Mawugbe the literary genius has taken a bow just when the applause was loudest” and that his death is a big blow to the nation. According to the President, the nation has lost “a genius whose vacuum will be difficult to fill.” Mr Alexander Agordoh, Board Chairmen of the National Theatre also described Efo Kodjo as a dedicated and selfless man as well as a great asset for Ghana's theatre industry. He also said, "Efo bowed out at the zenith of his career when the applauds were loudest." There were also tributes from his wife, Georgina Akwetey Mawugbe, Children, Mother and others. They all highlighted Efo’s unquestionable personality which had everyone at heart. They underlined his immense contributions to the development of theatre in the country. Many recounted that, he was a gifted personality who had great love for Ghanaian theatre and a visionary leader. Long time friend of Efo Kodjo, Rev. Dr. Nii Amoo Darku, who gave the sermon at the funeral said "I can assure you that Efo is in the bosom of the lord," calling on others to also determine their fate while they are alive today. He recounted his long relationship with the award-winning playwright, adding, he was even with him by his sick bed.