Akufo-Addo mourns victims of helicopter crash, pays tribute to fallen leaders & soldiers

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic military helicopter crash in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region, which claimed the lives of prominent political leaders and senior military personnel.

The crash, which occurred during a routine mission, was confirmed by the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Julius Debrah, in an official statement on Wednesday afternoon. The victims include the Minister for Defence, Hon. Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Minister for Environment and Science and MP for Tamale Central, Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed; National Vice Chairman of the ruling NDC, Dr. Samuel Sarpong; Mr. Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

In a heartfelt message, Akufo-Addo described the incident as a “profound shock” to the entire nation, noting that the loss cuts across political, professional, and military lines.

He revealed that he had personally spoken with President John Dramani Mahama, Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, to convey his condolences.

He also extended sympathy to Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman, over the loss of key party figures.

“I condole with our gallant men of the Ghana Air Force at this concerning time and salute their indispensable role in the public life of our country,” the former president stated, praising the military’s dedication despite the risks they face in service to the nation.

This tragedy has cast a pall over the country, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, military officers, and ordinary citizens alike.

Many have recalled the decades-long tradition of the Ghana Armed Forces serving as a pillar of national security, disaster response, and peacekeeping operations abroad.