From the Desk of the Zongo Caucus Coordinator, NDC UK and Ireland Chapter

"Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return." – Quran 2:156

As a nation, we stand wrapped in grief since the incident of this air accident as we mourn the tragic loss of eight distinguished public servants whose lives we anticipated to continue beyond a journey in a military helicopter.

As Coordinator of the Zongo Caucus UK and Ireland Chapter of the National Democratic Congress, I extend our deepest condolences to our beloved nation, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, and the bereaved families of these remarkable souls who have returned to Allah whilst serving their country.

The Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter, carrying these dedicated servants to launch the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme in Obuasi, became their final journey of service.

Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed were among the victims of the crash in the southern Ashanti region, alongside six other patriots who gave their lives in service to Ghana.

The Eight Fallen Heroes:

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Defence Minister>/b>
A medical doctor from the University of Ghana Medical School with a master’s degree in health policy planning and financing from the London School of Economics.

He once served as President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and participated in the Medical Rescue Team during the May 9, 2001 stadium disaster.

He led efforts in child online protection and cyber security. He was preparing a book titled “A Peaceful Man in an African Democracy” about President Atta Mills.

Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Environment Minister
Born 14 December 1974. A trained teacher from Tamale College of Education with further studies in Development Studies and international relations. Known for his deep philosophical and spiritual views, he championed environmental sustainability and Ghana’s green transition.

Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Dedicated to national security and Ghana’s peace.

Dr. Samuel Sarpong – NDC Vice Chairman
Offered political guidance that strengthened democratic institutions.

Samuel Aboagye – Former NDC Parliamentary Candidate (Obuasi East)
A grassroots political servant.

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
Distinguished Ghana Armed Forces pilot.

Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu
Committed military airman.

Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
Faithful soldier, exemplifying dedication and sacrifice.

In Faith and Unity

In this profound loss, we find solace in divine wisdom:

“…And give good tidings to the patient, Who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’…” (Quran 2:155–157)

“The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away…” (Job 1:21)
“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

These eight lives were divine gifts to Ghana. Their legacy of wisdom, vision, and commitment to the nation will live on. Dr. Boamah’s innovations in cyber safety and defence, Minister Murtala’s environmental efforts, and the dedicated services of their colleagues have strengthened our foundations as a people.

This tragedy is a stark reminder to all public servants of the trust placed in their care. As the Quran says:

“O you who believe! Fulfil your contracts.” (Quran 5:1)

Let this moment renew the commitment of all in public service to act with honour and selflessness. True leadership demands sacrifice for the common good.

Our Call for Unity

From the Zongo communities across the UK and Ireland, we extend our condolences to President Mahama. May Allah guide him with strength and wisdom.

To the bereaved families, we share in your pain and celebrate your loved ones’ legacies.

“And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him.” (Quran 65:3)

Whether we pray through Allah, Jesus, or other names for the Almighty, our united hearts seek healing and strength.

“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)

May Ghana find unity and purpose. May the memory of these eight inspire excellence and service among all Ghanaians—both home and abroad.

May Allah grant our heroes Jannatul Firdaws, comfort the grieving, bless our leaders with wisdom, and unite our nation.

“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Quran 13:28)

On behalf of the entire Zongo Caucus, UK and Ireland Chapter of the NDC, we stand with Our Beloved Ghana in this hour of grief and prayer.