The Greater Accra Regional (GAR) Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, laid a wreath in honour of the eight Ghanaians who died in a military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
Speaking after the solemn tribute, Mrs. Ocloo said she felt compelled to attend the ceremony despite being out of the country when the news broke.
“As a minister, alongside my colleagues, we had to be here to pay our last respects to our comrades. Most importantly, they died in the line of duty. It is our responsibility to be here to extend our condolences to the bereaved families, especially the widows. I’ve been in their shoes before, and I know what they are going through. My prayer is that the Lord comforts them and stays with them and their children,” she said.
The Minister described the fallen as “part of us” and praised their service to the nation.
She also reflected on the inevitability of death, saying, “Our consolation is that it’s the Lord who gives and He takes. May their souls rest in perfect peace.”
When asked about lessons to be drawn from the tragedy, Mrs. Ocloo said the incident was a reminder of life’s uncertainty.
“In life, as we are standing here, we don’t know what will happen tomorrow. We should use this tragedy to inspire peace among all of us. We must live as if every day is a call to glory and remain humble, knowing we will all die one day,” she added.
The wreath-laying formed part of activities to honour the eight who lost their lives while serving the country.
Two of the victims of the recent helicopter crash, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna were buried on August 10.
The remaining six buried on August 15, include Dr. Omane Boamah; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
