
06/08/2025
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has joined the nation in mourning following the devastating military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. The incident, widely described as one of the most tragic in Ghana’s recent history, claimed the lives of eight individuals, including three senior government officials and several members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The deceased include Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation; and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator. All three were en route to Obuasi on official duty when the Ghana Armed Forces helicopter they were travelling in crashed under yet-to-be-determined circumstances.
In a public statement posted to his official social media page and broadcast by EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, former President Akufo-Addo described the crash as a "national tragedy", stating that the incident had left him and the entire country "profoundly shocked and saddened." He emphasized that the loss of such distinguished public servants and dedicated military personnel represents a deeply painful moment for Ghana.
“I have spoken and extended my deepest condolences to the President of the Republic, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, and to Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC),” the former President noted.
Akufo-Addo further extended his sympathies to the Ghana Air Force, acknowledging the exceptional service and unwavering commitment of the fallen military officers who were onboard the ill-fated aircraft.
“I console with our gallant men of the Ghana Air Force at this concerning time and salute their indispensable role in the public life of our country,” he said.
The former President's message struck a solemn and reverent tone, highlighting the shared sense of grief and national solidarity in the wake of the disaster. He concluded with a heartfelt prayer for the souls of the departed:
“May they find peaceful rest in the Bosom of the Almighty, until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again.”
In response to the tragedy, the Government of Ghana, through the Office of the President, has declared a period of national mourning. All national flags are to be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the deceased until further notice. The directive reflects the nation’s collective respect for the contributions of the victims and the gravity of the loss suffered.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Armed Forces, in collaboration with relevant investigative authorities, has launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary assessments are underway, with official updates expected in the coming days. Security analysts and aviation experts have called for thorough technical and procedural reviews to prevent future occurrences of such incidents involving state officials and military assets.
The tragic loss of Dr. Omane Boamah, Dr. Murtala Mohammed, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru has sent shockwaves throughout the political landscape, with tributes pouring in from across the political spectrum, civil society, religious bodies, and the international diplomatic community. Many have described the late ministers as selfless patriots who served with distinction and unwavering commitment to the progress of the nation.
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz will continue to provide accurate, timely, and respectful updates on all developments related to this national tragedy.
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