A high-powered government and party delegation has visited the family home of the late Dr. Edward Omane Boamah in Koforidua to formally inform his mother and close relatives of his tragic death in Tuesday’s military helicopter crash.
The visit follows the devastating accident in the Ashanti Region that claimed the lives of eight people, including the Defence Minister, Dr. Omane Boamah, and Environment Minister, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The delegation was led by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, accompanied by Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe, NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, Deputy Minister of Defence Brogya Genfi, Minister for Government Communication Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and Presidential Advisor Joyce Bawa Mogtari.
Also in attendance were members of the military high command, Council of State member Evelyn Korang, the Eastern Regional Security Coordinator, the Regional Police Commander, and the Municipal Chief Executives of New Juaben North and South.
The group consoled the bereaved mother and other family members, assured them of the government’s full support, and offered prayers during an emotional gathering marked by grief and solemn reflection.
Dr. Omane Boamah was among the high-profile officials aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter that crashed in a forested area near Adansi Akrofuom on Tuesday morning. The aircraft was en route from Accra to Obuasi for the launch of a new mining and skills development program.
Shortly after departure, the helicopter lost radar contact and was later discovered completely burnt at the crash site. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before the aircraft went down.
All eight persons on board died, including Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation and MP for Tamale Central, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr Samuel Sarpong – NDC Vice Chairman, Samuel Aboagye – Former NDC parliamentary candidate, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala – Pilot, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu – Co-pilot, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah – Crew member
Bodies Burnt Beyond Recognition
The bodies, which were retrieved under difficult conditions, were burnt beyond recognition. DNA analysis will be required to identify each victim before burial arrangements can be finalized. The remains have been transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi for forensic examination.
National Mourning and Investigations
President Mahama has declared three days of national mourning. The Ghana Armed Forces and the Civil Aviation Authority have begun investigations to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest possible mechanical failure, but officials caution that conclusive findings may take time.
Legacy of Dr. Omane Boamah
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, a medical doctor by training, previously served as Minister for Communications and was known for his composed leadership style. He was a respected figure within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and widely admired for his public service.
His untimely death has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, with many describing him as a dedicated patriot and a unifier.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
