By Kingsley Mamore
Dambai (O/R), Aug 6, GNA – Dambai, the capital of the Oti Region is mourning the loss of eight prominent individuals, including Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environmental, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who died in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
The incident occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, while officials were enroute to Obuasi to attend the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme.
Other victims of the tragedy include were Alhahji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Ashanti Regional Minister, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former NDC Parliamentary candidate, Squadron Leader Peter, Flying Officer, Mr. Twum Ampadu and Sergeant, Mr. Ernest Addo.
The Ghana News Agency’s (GNA) observed a sombre and solemn atmosphere and mood at the NPP Parliament base, a spot christened for the NPP at Dambai Junction where some youths were seen grappling with the news of the tragic helicopter crashed that claimed the lives of eight prominent individuals.
Mr. Clement Kwasi Checke, Mr. Justice Mensah Abizo and others, visibly soaked in tears, spoke to the GNA about the devastating loss.
They said: “It’s about time Ghanaians put aside politics, we’ve lost prominent personalities, and it’s a great tragedy for our nation.”
Mr. Abizo, nodded in agreement, struggling to hold back tears.
He said in voice barely above a whisper: “May God grant their souls eternal rest, this loss is a painful reminder of the fragility of life.
“We must come together as Ghanaians to mourn and pay our last respect to these gallant patriots,”
People at the New Patriotic Party base, emphasised the need for unity and solidarity in the face of tragedy, calling on all Ghanaians to put aside their differences and support the families of the deceased.
Another atmosphere at the “Yihwa Ne M’Abankese” a welding and fabrication shop, a popular hangout base, affiliated to the NDC, saw workers and party members glued to their radios and a television as news of the rescue effort trickles with free-flowing tears cascading their cheeks as the mourn the departed.
In an interview with the GNA, Mr. Richard Dunugbe, Chairman of Concern Youth and Mr. Francis Gesaloge Boyesa Okoro, a Communication member of the NDC expressed their shock and grief over the tragedy.
He said: “We’re deeply saddened by the loss of these great Ghanaians, it’s a painful reminder that we’re all vulnerable, and we must cherish every moment we have with our loved ones”.
Mr. Okoro, “The nation has lost valuable leaders, and their contributions will be greatly missed, may God comfort their families and loved ones.”
As the nation mourns, the outpouring of grief and tributes from both sides of the political divide is a testament to the impact of the lives lost on Ghana.
However, the streets of Dambai, the Oti Regional capital were filled with somber reflections as residents gathered in groups reacted to the tragic news.
When GNA spoke to some residents on the streets, they expressed their condolences and sympathized with the families of the deceased.
“We’re deeply saddened by this tragic loss. May God grant the families strength and comfort during this difficult time,” they said.
The residents of the Oti Region described Dr. Boamah as a dedicated public servant, who worked tirelessly for the nation’s development.
They said his contributions to Ghana’s security and defense sectors will be greatly missed.
The Government of Ghana has declared national mourning, with all flags flying at half-mast in honour of the deceased.
President John Dramani Mahama and the government have extended their condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims as he cancels all schedules for the rest of the week.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah