The Ghana Armed Forces has released the identities of the eight individuals who lost their lives in Wednesday morning’s tragic military helicopter crash in the southern Ashanti Region.
The Z-9 military helicopter, which was flying from Accra to Obuasi for an official engagement, lost contact with air traffic control shortly before the crash. All eight persons onboard — five passengers and three crew members — were confirmed dead.
President John Mahama described the incident as a national tragedy and immediately suspended official engagements upon receiving the news. He also directed that flags across Ghana be flown at half-mast in honour of the victims.
The deceased include two senior cabinet members, top security officials, and military personnel. Below are the names and portfolios of those onboard:
- Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
- Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
- Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture
- Samuel Sarpong – Vice-Chairman, National Democratic Congress (NDC)
- Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Peter Baafemi Anala – Squadron Leader
- Manaen Twum Ampadu – Flying Officer
- Ernest Addo – Sergeant
The crash has thrown the nation into deep mourning, with tributes pouring in from within and outside the country.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria, in a condolence message, extended his sympathies to the government and people of Ghana, urging the bereaved families to take solace in the fact that their loved ones died in service to their nation.
Ghanaian authorities say a full investigation has commenced to determine the cause of the crash.
