The President, John Dramani Mahama, has urged the public to rise above partisan politics in mourning the eight individuals who lost their lives in the military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom area, near Obuasi in the Ashanti region.
During his address to the nation following the incident, the President called on everyone to prioritise unity and solidarity in mourning the five government officials and three military personnel who perished in the crash, in the course of a critical mission aimed at safeguarding Ghana’s environment.
Stressing the essence of compassion, solidarity, and collective healing, President Mahama admonished all to resist any urge to politicise the tragic incident.
“This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails.”
Beyond political affiliations and differences, the President emphasised that Ghanaians possess a shared humanity and now, a shared sorrow.
“Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost,” he added.
The Wednesday, August 6, crash occurred in a dense forest area while the victims were en route to Obuasi, killing Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong.
Three military officers, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah also died in the crash. The Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter went off radar before the fatal incident, leaving no survivors.
The President declared a three-day national mourning for the victims in response to the crash, starting from Thursday, August 7. He also announced a programme of commemorative events, including an Evening of Reflections on Saturday, August 9 at the State House and the opening of books of condolence at key institutions from Sunday, August 10, to Thursday, August 14.
The mourning period will culminate in an inter-denominational state funeral at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, where the nation will formally honour the eight fallen individuals described as patriots who died in the line of duty.
President Mahama assured that investigations will be carried out to establish the cause of the crash.
Full Text: Mahama’s address to the nation on GAF helicopter crash
