KEY POINTS
- Ghana helicopter crash kills eight senior figures.
- Mahama orders transparent investigation into tragedy.
- Nation to hold state funeral on August 15.
President John Dramani Mahama addressed the nation Thursday night in a somber tone. His remarks followed a deadly helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofuom that claimed eight lives, including senior government officials and top Ghana Armed Forces personnel.
Mahama described the incident as “a deep personal loss,” recalling close relationships with several victims. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and urged Ghanaians to stand united in grief.
Ghana helicopter crash claims top officials
The deceased included Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Environment, Science, and Technology Minister and Tamale Central MP Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; Deputy NADMO Director-General Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Anala; Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force.
Mahama hailed their dedication, noting that their final moments were spent in service to the nation. “We have lost some of our brightest minds,” he said, calling their deaths a reminder of life’s fragility and the sacrifices of public service.
Full investigation into Ghana helicopter crash
The Ghana Armed Forces has launched a transparent investigation into the tragedy. Flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered, and an investigative board is working to establish the cause.
All eight bodies have been retrieved. Government officials are coordinating with families on identification and burial arrangements. Mahama stressed that this period should be free from political point-scoring. He urged citizens to focus on compassion, unity, and support for the grieving families.
Honouring the victims’ legacy
Memorial events will begin Saturday, August 9, with an Evening of Reflection at the State House forecourt. Books of condolence will open from August 10 to 14 at key ministries, the Ghana Armed Forces headquarters, NDC headquarters, and NADMO’s head office.
An inter-denominational state funeral is scheduled for Friday, August 15, at Black Star Square, where the nation will bid farewell to “eight heroes who served Ghana with distinction.”
Mahama closed with a blessing: “Though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served.”
