Ghana Mourns as Military Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Top Officials
The Ghana Armed Forces have confirmed the tragic loss of several key government and military personnel following the crash of a Z-9 helicopter on Wednesday. The aircraft was traveling from Accra to Obuasi when the fatal incident occurred.
In an emotional message shared via the military’s official X account, the Armed Forces expressed their grief:
“Our hearts are heavy. You served our nation with honor and bravery.”
Among the victims were:
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Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
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Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
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Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator & former Minister for Food and Agriculture
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Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman of the NDC
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Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
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Peter Baafemi Anala – Squadron Leader
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Manaen Twum Ampadu – Flying Officer
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Ernest Addo – Sergeant
The nation has since declared three days of mourning, as condolences continue to pour in from across the country and beyond. Each of the individuals on board held roles that significantly impacted national governance and security.
Earlier in the day, the military reported the aircraft had disappeared from radar shortly after its 9:00 a.m. departure from Accra. Initial reports noted that eight people were on board — five passengers and three crew members — but details were limited at the time.
Footage shared by local media outlet Joy News showed the burning wreckage deep within a forested region. It wasn’t until later that the identities of the passengers — including ministers Boamah and Mohammed — were officially confirmed.
Edward Omane Boamah had only recently been appointed Defence Minister under President John Mahama, following the president’s January inauguration. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed served as the head of the environment, science, and technology ministry.
This incident has left the country in deep sorrow as families, colleagues, and citizens come to terms with the magnitude of the loss.
