Accra, Ghana – August 7, 2025
President John Dramani Mahama has addressed the nation in a solemn and emotionally charged broadcast following the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight high-profile Ghanaians, including two cabinet ministers and senior military personnel.
The address, delivered from the Jubilee House and broadcast nationwide, comes just 48 hours after the catastrophic incident near Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, which has plunged the nation into mourning and raised questions about military aviation safety and national security.
“A Dark Day in Our Nation’s History”
In his statement, President Mahama described the tragedy as “a dark day in our nation’s history”, paying tribute to the victims for their distinguished service to Ghana.
“Ghana mourns the loss of some of its finest sons and patriots,” he said. “This tragedy is not only a personal loss to the families involved, but a national loss that has shaken the foundation of our democracy and the stability we have worked so hard to preserve.”
He confirmed that the deceased included:
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
- Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman, National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Squadron Leader Peter [surname withheld] – Ghana Air Force
- Flying Officer Twum Ampadu – Ghana Air Force
- Sergeant Ernest Addo – Ghana Air Force
National Mourning Declared
President Mahama officially declared a seven-day period of national mourning, effective immediately, during which all flags will fly at half-mast. He called on religious leaders to offer prayers for the souls of the departed and for national unity during this time of grief.
“We are a resilient people, and in our collective sorrow, we must find the strength to stand together, to honour their memory by upholding the values they served with courage and commitment.”
Independent Investigation Commission
The President announced the immediate establishment of an Independent Presidential Commission of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the crash. The commission will work in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces, Civil Aviation Authority, and international aviation experts.
“We owe it to the families, to the Armed Forces, and to the people of Ghana to understand what happened and to ensure that this never occurs again,” he said firmly.
He also confirmed that the helicopter’s black box had been retrieved and would play a central role in uncovering the circumstances that led to the crash.
Support for Families and State Funeral
President Mahama assured the bereaved families of full government support, including financial, psychological, and logistical assistance. Plans for a state funeral for the fallen officials and military officers are underway, with further details to be released in the coming days.
Final Appeal to Ghanaians
In closing, President Mahama urged Ghanaians to reject political division and rumour-mongering at such a critical time, calling instead for unity, reflection, and national solidarity.
“Let us honour their lives not only with our grief, but with our resolve to continue their work—to build a safer, more united, and more compassionate Ghana.”
The President’s address has been met with a wave of condolences and solidarity across the political spectrum, civil society, and the international community.
Source – My News Ghana
