A devastating tragedy has struck Ghana, leaving the nation in a state of shock and mourning. In a heartbreaking official announcement, the government has confirmed the identities of the eight individuals who lost their lives in the Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash near Obuasi on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. The incident, which claimed the lives of top government officials, key political figures, and dedicated military personnel, has been declared a national tragedy, with all flags now ordered to be flown at half-mast in their honor.
The Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter, which was en route from Accra to Obuasi, went off radar and subsequently crashed, sparking an intense search and rescue operation. While there was initial hope for survivors, the devastating confirmation came from the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who held a press briefing at Jubilee House to deliver the somber news. The list of the deceased paints a stark picture of a profound loss for both the government and the nation at large.
The victims are:
- Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – The Minister for Defence
- Dr. Alhaji Murtala Muhammed – The Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science & Technology
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – The Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Dr. Samuel Sarpong – The Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Samuel Aboagye – A former Parliamentary Candidate
- Sqn. Leader Peter Bafemi Anala – A military officer
- Flying Officer Twum Ampadu – A military officer
- Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah – A military officer
The loss of these individuals, particularly the two serving ministers, marks one of the most severe aviation tragedies in Ghana’s recent history. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, a respected figure in government, was at the helm of the nation’s defense, while Dr. Alhaji Murtala Muhammed, a vibrant MP, was championing environmental and scientific progress. Their sudden deaths leave a significant void in Ghana’s political and governance landscape.
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, a key figure in national security, and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, a high-ranking official within the NDC, were also on board, along with Samuel Aboagye, a dedicated former parliamentary candidate. Their presence on the helicopter highlights the tragic loss of not just public servants, but also influential political leaders who were actively involved in national development.
The three military personnel, Sqn. Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah, represent the ultimate sacrifice made by the Ghana Armed Forces. They were on duty, serving their country, when this tragedy occurred. Their dedication and service will be deeply honored and remembered by a grateful nation.
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The government has expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, pledging full support during this difficult time. In a powerful gesture of national mourning, the Chief of Staff’s directive for all flags to be flown at half-mast signifies the gravity of this loss. It is a symbol of a nation united in grief, reflecting on the profound impact these individuals had on their communities and on Ghana as a whole.
While investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, the focus for now remains on honoring the lives lost and supporting the families left behind. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in public service and military aviation. As Ghana comes to terms with this heartbreaking news, the nation stands together to mourn the loss of eight patriots who died in the line of service.
