Africa-Press – Ghana. The news of the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent Ghanaians, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, has sent shockwaves across the nation.
Tributes have been pouring in from some Members of Parliament (MPs), friends, and acquaintances, mourning the loss of these dedicated public servants on X, formerly Twitter.
Mr. Samuel Nartey George, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for Ningo-Prampram, in a message on X seen, expressed his grief in a heartfelt message:
“Where do I start, and to whom do I turn? Everyone else is distraught and in despair… Kofi, why? How? This is not what we agreed on!… You didn’t just care about my politics; you cared about and loved my family… Who would guide me now? You have been my compass and guiding light these past 7 months since I was appointed minister.”
On his part, Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Ofoase-Ayiribi and a fellow old Pope John’s Seminary Secondary School student as the late Dr. Omane Boamah, paid tribute to the victims.
It read: “On this terrible day of national tragedy, my prayers go out to the families of our eight colleagues who have fallen in the line of duty and in the service of our dear country… May the good lord keep their souls and comfort the families left behind. May he give us all the strength to hold the fort and carry on their service.”
“It is so, so heartbreaking to hear of our countrymen suffer this fate.
“For the Pope John Secondary School fraternity, Pojoba Senior Dr. Omane Boamah’s demise stings extra painfully,” he added.
Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, NDC MP for Tamale South, also paid tribute to the late Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
He tweeted, “Your contributions have significantly shaped our path, Great Comrade. Your commendable efforts have created a legacy that not only inspires but also provides a strong foundation for uplifting our nation as we move forward. May Allah have mercy on your soul.”
The nation remains in shock, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss of these dedicated public servants. As the country mourns, there is a sense of unity and solidarity among Ghanaians, who are coming together to support the bereaved families and pay tribute to the victims.
The crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, killing Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, and Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation and NDC MP for Tamale Central.
Also confirmed dead in the crash were Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; and Mr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC.
The crew members who perished in the crash were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Preliminary reports suggest that the victims were aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter en route to Obuasi when the aircraft suddenly went off radar.
Emergency teams were quickly dispatched to the crash site following the incident.
The government has since ordered all national flags to fly at half-mast in honour of the fallen.
Investigations are expected to continue in the coming days to determine the exact cause of the crash.
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