The children of late Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, paid an emotional tribute Thursday evening during a vigil at Christ the King Parish in Accra, describing their father as “irreplaceable” and honoring his enduring commitment to family, public service, and integrity.
Speaking to a packed congregation just days after the tragic August 6 military helicopter crash that claimed their father’s life and seven others, the children reflected on the principles he instilled in them and the legacy he leaves behind.
“Your love was steady, your love was gentle, and it was the warmth that filled our home,” they said during the service. They emphasized that Dr. Boamah taught them to define success not by personal accolades but by the impact one has on others. “You showed us that compassion is strength, but speaking the truth is an obligation,” they said. “Service to others, you told us, is the greatest legacy.”
Despite his demanding schedule, Dr. Boamah remained a constant presence in his children’s lives, frequently calling during official trips and never missing significant milestones. “You taught us to dream big but stay grounded,” they recalled.
Emotion swelled as they addressed the loss directly. “Daddy, why did you leave us so soon?” they asked. “Who will we call in the middle of the night when we have questions? Who will have the answers? You are irreplaceable, Edwardo.”
Dr. Boamah was one of eight victims aboard a Ghana Armed Forces helicopter that crashed during a domestic flight earlier this month. Among the others killed were Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
The military crew — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — also perished in the crash. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the cause of the incident, which remains under investigation.
A state funeral for the victims is scheduled for Friday, August 15, in Accra. Dr. Muhammed and Alhaji Mohammed were laid to rest earlier in accordance with Islamic rites.
