Speaker Of Parliament Tribute
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has delivered a heartfelt tribute to the eight distinguished Ghanaians who perished in the August 6 Sikaman helicopter crash, hailing them as “the very embodiment of Ghana’s highest aspirations.”
Speaking at the state funeral on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre, Mr. Bagbin said the tragedy was a national wound that would take a long time to heal.
“These gallant men were not only public servants; they were torchbearers of our democracy, defenders of our sovereignty, and exemplars of service and sacrifice,” he said.
Remembering the Fallen Heroes
The victims of the crash included:
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Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah
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Minister for Environment Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed
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NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong
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Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed
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Deputy NADMO Director-General Samuel Aboagye
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Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
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Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu
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Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
They were on an official mission to Obuasi when their aircraft crashed in the Adansi Akrofrom District of the Ashanti Region.
“They Lived for Ghana”
The Speaker noted that each of the deceased had, in their own unique way, contributed to strengthening Ghana’s democratic and developmental journey.
“They lived for Ghana, worked for Ghana, and in their final moments, they died in service to Ghana,” he remarked.
Mr. Bagbin recalled working closely with some of the late officials, praising their integrity, dedication, and passion for the nation’s progress.
Call for Unity and Reflection
The Speaker urged the nation to honour their memory by fostering unity and upholding the ideals for which the men stood.
“In this moment of grief, let us transcend political divides. Let us commit ourselves to the principles of justice, equality, and patriotism. This is the most fitting tribute we can offer them,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of ensuring safety in public service operations, stressing that the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for stronger measures to protect lives.
A Nation in Mourning
The funeral service was attended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former President John Dramani Mahama, Members of Parliament, top military officials, political leaders, and ordinary citizens, all of whom came to pay their final respects.
As the coffins, draped in the national flag, were lined before the mourners, the Speaker concluded his tribute with these words:
“These gallant men have completed their earthly mission. May their souls rest in perfect peace, and may their legacy inspire generations yet unborn.”
The Sikaman helicopter crash has been described as one of Ghana’s darkest days in recent history, taking from the nation some of its most dedicated sons.
Source: My News Ghana
