The Council of State has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals, including two Cabinet Ministers.

In an official statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Doe Adjaho, the Council described the incident as “a national tragedy and a painful loss to the entire nation.”

The deceased were:

1. Dr Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
2. Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
3. Samuel Sarpong – National Vice Chairman of the NDC
4. Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
5. Samuel Aboagye – Former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East
6. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
7. Flying Officer Manaan Twum Ampadu
8. Sergeant Ernest Addo

The Council of State has since offered its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the government and people of Ghana, Parliament, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the leadership and membership of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“We share in the grief and mourn the loss of these patriotic individuals who served our country with honour, diligence, and devotion and paid the ultimate price in the course of duty,” the statement read.

Calling for national unity during this difficult period, the Council urged citizens to reflect on the values of service and sacrifice exemplified by the victims.

“At this moment of national mourning, we call on all Ghanaians to unite in prayer and solidarity, and to uphold the values of service and sacrifice that these fallen heroes embodied,” the statement stated.

AS/AE