Accra: The Upper East Regional Coordinating Council (UERCC) has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives including high-profile government officials and military personnel in the Ashanti Region on August 6.
According to Ghana News Agency, in a statement signed by the Regional Minister, Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Council described the incident as a 'colossal loss' to the government and people of Ghana. It extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and called on residents to remain calm, united, and prayerful during this period of national mourning.
'The Upper East Region stands in solidarity with the entire nation as we mourn the departed heroes who died in active service,' the statement read.
The Regional leaderships of both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) also expressed grief over the loss of key public figures, including cabinet ministers Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
Mr. Jonathan Abdullah Salifu, NDC Regional Communications Officer, described the loss as 'tragic' and a major blow to the nation, highlighting the personal and professional contributions of the deceased. 'Dr Boamah was not just a politician but also a dedicated medical doctor. Dr Murtala was passionate about youth empowerment, and I had the privilege of working with him,' he said.
NPP Regional Communications Director, Mr. Peter Ayinbisa Ayamga, also mourned the deaths, saying, 'This is not about politics-it's about human life. Dr Boamah was a formidable advocate for his party and a promising leader. It's a sad day for the country.'
National flags were flown at half-mast at public institutions in Bolgatanga, and residents expressed deep concern, many visibly distressed. Mr. Emmanuel Allan Abane, a security guard at the Bolgatanga Health Centre, recalled meeting Dr. Murtala Muhammed: 'He was kind to me. I still can't believe he's gone.'
The crash victims included Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Defence Minister and Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation. The others were Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and a former Minister for Food and Agriculture as well as a former Upper East and Northern Regional Minister, and Dr Samuel Sarpong, the Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and a former Ashanti Regional Minister.
President Mahama has since directed all national flags to be flown at half-mast in honour of the departed.
