Accra: The Parliamentary Press Corps (PPC) has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight Ghanaians, including Dr. Alhaji Murtala Mohammed, the National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament for Tamale Central.
According to Ghana News Agency, a statement signed by Mr. Simon Agianab, Dean of the PPC, and issued in Accra described the loss as 'deeply personal' due to the Corps' close association with the victims while covering parliamentary proceedings. It remembered Dr. Alhaji Murtala Mohammed, also the Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister, for his 'insightful contributions during debates as a legislator,' noting his interventions were often 'passionate, grounded in principle, and reflective of a deep commitment to the welfare of his constituents and the larger national interest.'
For Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, the Defence Minister, the PPC remembered him for his 'characteristic composure, clarity, and dedication to public service' during his last engagement on the Floor of the House. 'His presence in the Chamber was marked by a calm authority that earned him respect across the aisle,' it said.
The PPC extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the Government of Ghana, the Parliament of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). 'We mourn with the nation, knowing that their service and sacrifices will be remembered as part of Ghana's democratic and development journey,' it noted. 'May their souls, and the souls of all who perished in the line of duty, rest in perfect peace,' the PPC prayed.
Eight individuals lost their lives in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. The victims included Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The rest were Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, pilot; Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, co-pilot; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, crew member.
A national mourning period has been declared, with flags flying at half-mast across the country. A flower-laying ceremony is currently underway as part of a series of national mourning events leading up to the state burial scheduled for August 15, 2025. The flower-laying ceremony started on Thursday, August 7.
Meanwhile, an evening of reflections and memorials in honour of the eight victims is scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the forecourt of the State House. Families, friends, and dignitaries, led by President John Dramani Mahama, are expected to gather at the venue to solemnly honour the memories of the departed compatriots. The night is also expected to be characterized by hymns, short speeches, a candlelit procession by military and civilian representatives, and prayers.
