Story: News Desk

Former Presidents  John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo  have  expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and six others who perished in Wednesday’s military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.

In a statement issued by former President Kufuor,   he  said,  he  was “shocked” by the tragedy, describing it as a national loss.

He extended his condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, emphasising their commitment to national duty.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and colleagues of all those who perished in this tragic incident,” he stated.

“May we honour their memory by striving for compassion, unity and common purpose in serving our nation, Ghana.”

He called on Ghanaians to unite in grief and urged divine consolation for the entire country, particularly for the bereaved families and President John Mahama.

For his part, former President Akufo‑Addo  expressed profound shock and sorrow. 

In a statement, former President Akufo‑Addo extended his deepest condolences to President John Mahama, the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and the families of the victims.

He also expressed solidarity with the deceased Ghana Air Force personnel, acknowledging their dedication and sacrifice.

“The entire nation is profoundly shocked and saddened by the tragic news,” he said, referencing the deaths of Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The former president offered prayers for the departed, saying, “May they find peaceful rest in the Bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again.”

The crash occurred near Adansi Akrofuom while the Ghana Armed Forces Z‑9 helicopter was en route to Obuasi, with emergency response teams now investigating the cause.