Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang on Friday paid tribute to eight government and military officials who perished in a helicopter crash earlier this month, lauding their “selflessness, sacrifice, and commitment to duty” in the service of the nation.
Speaking at a solemn state burial in Accra for six of the victims, Prof Opoku-Agyemang said the late officials embodied a deep faith in Ghana’s potential and a dedication to public service that transcended personal interest.
“I thank each of you for your examples of selflessness, sacrifice, commitment to duty, and your abiding belief in the ability of our country to be better for all of us,” she said in remarks that blended tribute with a call for national resilience. Quoting a traditional hymn, she added: “Through the love of God our Saviour, all is well.”
The ceremony marked the second state funeral held for the victims of the August 6 crash. On August 10, two were laid to rest: Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
The remaining six, interred on August 15, included Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Samuel Aboagye; National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The crash, which is under investigation, has shaken Ghana’s political and security establishment. All eight individuals were reportedly en route to a government function when their military aircraft went down under undisclosed circumstances.
Authorities have yet to release details on the cause of the crash. A government inquiry is underway.
“Their loss is not only a personal tragedy for their families but a national one,” the Vice President said. “Let us find strength in their example, and honor them by continuing the work they believed in.”
