'Deep Personal Loss' - President Mahama Speaks Out After Military Helicopter Crash Kills 8
Accra, Ghana – 8 August, 2025 - In a heartfelt national address, President John Mahama paid tribute to the eight individuals who lost their lives in Wednesday's military helicopter crash, describing the incident as a "deep personal loss" and a tragedy of national significance. Speaking from the Jubilee House on Thursday night, August 7, 2025, the President expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, many of whom he considered close friends and colleagues.
"The entire nation is in mourning, and we stand together in this difficult time," President Mahama said, highlighting the victims' dedication to Ghana's progress and well-being. He acknowledged the loss of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and other senior military and political figures, paying tribute to each of their contributions to the nation.
The President assured Ghanaians that a full and transparent investigation into the crash would be conducted, with the Ghana Armed Forces having already initiated an inquiry. The recovery of the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder was also confirmed, and the President pledged that the government would work closely with the bereaved families throughout the identification and interment process.
To honor the memory of the victims, a national memorial will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 5 p.m. at the forecourt of the State House. Books of condolence will be opened from Sunday, August 10, to Thursday, August 14, 2025, at various locations. A full inter-denominational state funeral will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Black Star Square.
The President called for national unity and restraint in the face of grief, emphasizing the need for strength, empathy, and the enduring Ghanaian spirit. "May we all be comforted by the knowledge that though they are gone from our sights, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served. May God bless their souls, and may God bless our homeland, Ghana," he concluded.
Source – Lead News Online/Emmanuel Kofi Ahadzi
