Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has disclosed that President John Mahama is deeply shaken and emotionally devastated by the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of several top government officials and servicemen.
The fatal incident occurred in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region and has been described by government officials as a national disaster.
In an interview with JoyNews shortly after the official confirmation, Mr. Iddrisu shared, “The President is emotionally down—truly heartbroken. We pray for divine strength for him and for the people of Ghana as we come to terms with this painful loss.”
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah broke the news at a press conference earlier today, calling it a sorrowful moment for the entire nation.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce a national tragedy—a military helicopter crash in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region,” Mr. Debrah said.
The crash resulted in the deaths of five prominent civilians and three military personnel. The civilian victims include:
• Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, MP and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
• Muniru Mohammed Lemunade, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture
• Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress
• Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
The fallen members of the Ghana Armed Forces have been identified as:
• Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala
• Flying Officer Manim Twum Ampadu
• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
The loss has plunged the nation into mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the country and beyond.