President Mahama renders emotional homage to helicopter crash victims, announces state funeral

President John Dramani Mahama delivered a somber and emotionally charged national address in response to Wednesday’s military helicopter crash, which resulted in the loss of eight lives.

He described the incident as a “deep personal loss” and a tragedy of national significance. Speaking from Jubilee House on Thursday night, the President offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, many of whom he described as close friends, colleagues, and dedicated public servants.

“This tragedy represents a profound personal loss for me, as I shared a close bond with many of the individuals who perished. Our nation is in mourning, and on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I offer my sincerest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones,” he stated.

President Mahama stressed that the entire nation was united in mourning, pointing out that the victims had devoted their lives to Ghana’s advancement and welfare.

“Your loss is our loss — a loss of dedicated public servants, scholars, and individuals who worked tirelessly for a better Ghana.”

Among those who perished in the crash were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and other senior military and political figures. The President paid tribute to each of the victims by name, highlighting their contributions to the nation.

The President acknowledged the contributions of Squadron Leader Anala, Flying Officer Ampadu, and Sergeant Addo as dedicated Air Force personnel, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna as a humble public servant, Samuel Sarpong as a respected statesman, Samuel Aboagye as a promising young leader, and Dr. Omane Boamah and Dr. Murtala Mohammed as brilliant voices in governance and environmental stewardship.

He praised these individuals for serving Ghana with distinction, highlighting their unwavering commitment.

The President also addressed concerns about the crash’s cause, announcing a full investigation by the Ghana Armed Forces, with an investigative board and recovered flight data and cockpit voice recorders.

The President confirmed that the bodies of all eight of our departed comrades have been retrieved and that the government is collaborating closely with the bereaved families regarding the identification and final interment of the bodies.

He also emphasized the need for national unity and restraint in the face of grief, stressing that this is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring, but rather a time for strength, empathy, and the enduring Ghanaian spirit.

To honor the victims’ memory, a national memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 9, at 5 p.m. at the forecourt of the State House. Books of condolence will be opened from Sunday, August 10, to Thursday, August 14, at various locations.

The President announced that a full inter-denominational state funeral will take place on Friday, August 15, at Black Star Square.

“May we find solace in the knowledge that though they are no longer with us, their memory will forever be etched in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served. May God bless their souls and our homeland, Ghana,” President Mahama concluded.