President Mahama Mourns Helicopter Crash Victims, Announces State Funeral
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep sorrow and called for national unity following Wednesday’s military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District that killed eight prominent Ghanaians, including top government officials and members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
In a televised national address on Thursday evening, the President described the incident as a “profoundly personal loss” and extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the entire nation.
“These eight individuals dedicated their lives to Ghana’s progress,” President Mahama said. “That their final moments were spent in service is a testament to their unwavering commitment.”
Victims of the Crash Identified
The deceased were named as:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, MP for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO
Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Ghana Air Force
Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu, Ghana Air Force
Sergeant Ernest Addo, Ghana Air Force
The President noted that he personally knew and worked closely with many of the victims, calling their deaths “a national and personal heartbreak.”
Investigation Underway
Mahama assured the public that a full investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash. An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been set up by the Ghana Armed Forces, and both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder have been recovered.
“All eight bodies have been retrieved,” he confirmed. “The government is in close touch with the bereaved families regarding identification and final interment.”
Memorial Events Announced
To honour the lives and legacy of the victims, the President announced a series of memorial activities:
An Evening of Reflection and Memorial will be held on Saturday, August 9, at 5:00 p.m. at the Forecourt of the State House.
Books of Condolence will be opened from Sunday, August 10 to Thursday, August 14 at:
Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters
NDC Headquarters
NADMO Head Office
A grand inter-denominational state funeral will be held on Friday, August 15 at Black Star Square, Accra.
Call for Unity and Compassion
President Mahama appealed to all Ghanaians to unite in this time of mourning and avoid divisive rhetoric.
“This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring,” he said. “Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.”
He concluded by calling on the nation to draw strength from the memory of the departed and to remain steadfast in service to Ghana.
“May we all be comforted by the knowledge that, though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served.”
