President John Dramani Mahama this evening announced the establishment of a formal Board of Inquiry to probe the tragic helicopter crash that resulted in the deaths of eight prominent Ghanaians.
In a solemn address to the nation, President Mahama expressed condolences to the families of the victims, whose identities include Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of our departed comrades,” the President said.
“The Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.”
President Mahama confirmed that both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder from the ill-fated helicopter have been successfully recovered, a critical step in determining the cause of the crash.
“An investigative board of inquiry has set up to investigate the cause of the crash. The flight data and cock pit voice recorders have both been retrieved,” the President emphasized.
He further assured the nation that the government is working closely with the bereaved families regarding the identification and final rites of the victims. “All eight bodies have been retrieved,” he stated.
Addressing the nation during this period of profound grief, President Mahama called for national unity and compassion.
“In this moment of national sorrow, let us remember that we are above all Ghanaians, united not only by nationality but by shared hope and humanity,” he said. “Now is the time to set aside our differences, refrain from speculation or political point-scoring, and offer our collective compassion to the bereaved families.”
The President urged the country to embody strength, empathy, and resilience, emphasizing that their unity and support would be the greatest tribute to those who lost their lives.
“Let our words bring comfort, our actions express kindness, and our unity stand as a tribute to our fallen compatriots,” he concluded.
Source: www.Kumasimail/Kwadwo Owusu
