Ghana bid an emotional farewell on Friday, August 15, 2025, to six of the eight public servants who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash a tragedy that has cast a sombre shadow over the nation.
The state burial, marked by solemn prayers, military honours, and heartfelt eulogies, drew leaders, dignitaries, security officers, and citizens united in grief. Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, in his moving tribute, described the deceased as “gallant souls” whose dedication to national service and sudden passing offer a profound lesson on the fragility of life.
“Life is fragile, tomorrow is never promised, and every moment matters,” Bagbin told mourners. “As we honour their legacy, may we draw strength and wisdom from the way they lived and the way they left.” Bagbin, who was outside the country when the incident occurred, assured the bereaved families of Parliament’s and the nation’s unwavering solidarity.
“To the bereaved families, I offer not just the condolences of Parliament, but the collective embrace of a nation united in grief. May the Almighty console us and grant us the fortitude to continue their unfinished work.”
The crash claimed the lives of: 1. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister of Defence. 2. Hon. Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation. 3. Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator. 4. Dr. Samuel Sarpong – National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman. 5. Mr. Samuel Aboagye – NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East. 6. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala – Ghana Air Force pilot. 7. Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu – Ghana Air Force co-pilot. 8. Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah – Ghana Air Force crew member.
Two victims, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, were laid to rest on August 10 in accordance with Islamic rites. The remaining six were interred on August 15 following full state and military honours.
In his address, Bagbin reflected on their impact, recalling how many of the fallen were present just weeks earlier to mourn other departed colleagues — a cruel reminder that life’s course can change in an instant.
“These men were the loving hands that cradled children, the wise voices that guided families, and the compassionate hearts that uplifted communities,” Bagbin said. “Their work strengthened our institutions, their vision sowed seeds of progress, and their sacrifices upheld the dignity of Ghana.”
The Speaker likened their passing to “the heavens claiming eight radiant stars,” stressing that though their physical forms are gone, their legacies remain in the laws they championed, the missions they led, and the hope they inspired. The burial was attended by government officials, opposition leaders, the clergy, traditional rulers, and hundreds of citizens.
Tributes highlighted the victims’ contributions to governance, security, political activism, and national development. Military officers performed a ceremonial gun salute, while the national flag was presented to each family as a symbol of honour and gratitude from the state.
The crash described by Bagbin as “a painful chapter in our national story” — has prompted renewed discussions on aviation safety, security protocols, and the welfare of public servants who risk their lives in the line of duty. “Rest in peace, faithful servants of the nation,” Bagbin concluded. “May the angels receive you with fanfare befitting your service, and may your memory inspire generations yet to come.”
