A man known for his continuous growth has passed away at the age of 33 due to complications associated with a rare medical condition. Sulemana Abdul Samed, who stood at 7ft 4in and was speculated to have grown even taller before his demise, succumbed on Monday following infections in his leg sores. Fondly called Awuche in Ghana, he gained local fame for his extraordinary height that brought attention to his hometown of Gambaga.

According to Sulemana Abdul Kudus, a relative, Samed was renowned for his generosity and kindness. Many people have been visiting his home seeking details about his sudden demise.

Samed’s life took a drastic turn in his early twenties when he began experiencing rapid growth. Initially working at a butcher’s shop in Accra and saving money for driving school, he woke up one day with a swollen tongue and breathing difficulties. Subsequently, his entire body continued to grow, leading to spinal curvature and the abandonment of his aspirations to become a driver and play football.

Diagnosed with Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting connective tissues, Samed struggled with the condition’s effects, including unusual height and potential heart complications. Despite being admitted to a hospital in Tamale for infected leg sores, not directly linked to his syndrome, he sadly passed away.

Samed’s towering stature brought recognition to his community, with even the Ghanaian president’s brother offering to cover his medical expenses. While there was speculation about his potential to claim the title of the world’s tallest man, accurate measurements revealed him to be 7ft 4in, far from the initially estimated 9ft 6in.

Guinness World Records recognizes Sultan Kosen as the tallest living man at 8ft 3in, with the late American Robert Wadlow holding the title for the tallest person ever recorded at 8ft 11in.