A solemn and emotional Requiem Mass is currently being held in honor of the late Dr. Edward Omane Boamah at Pope John Senior High School and Minor Seminary, where he was once a proud and accomplished student. The event, organized by the school’s management, is part of a series of nationwide tributes being paid to the fallen Defence Minister and other victims of the tragic military helicopter crash that shook the nation to its core.
Dr. Omane Boamah, a distinguished alumnus of the revered Catholic boys’ school, had only recently returned to the campus—just last month—when he served as the Guest Speaker for the school’s 67th Anniversary celebration. His words at the time, filled with inspiration and encouragement to the younger generation, now echo with heartbreaking poignancy.
Sadly, that speech would be his final public engagement at his alma mater. Just weeks later, on Wednesday, August 6, he lost his life in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region, alongside seven others. The accident has thrown the nation into mourning and sparked conversations about aviation safety and the risks taken by public servants in service of the nation.
Nation in Mourning Over the Loss of National Leaders and Military Crew
At a formal press briefing in Accra, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah officially announced the devastating news: Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, serving Minister for Defence, was among the victims of the helicopter crash. His passing marks the loss of a key figure in national defense policy and a tireless advocate for Ghana’s armed forces.
Also confirmed among the deceased was Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Minister for Environment and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central. Known for his strong stance on environmental sustainability and climate action, Dr. Murtala’s death has sent shockwaves across the political and environmental sectors.
In addition to the two cabinet ministers, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, the former Ashanti Regional Minister and serving National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), also perished in the crash. Dr. Sarpong was widely respected for his commitment to regional development and party unity.
Other civilian victims of the crash include:
- Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, who played a strategic role in internal security planning.
- Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former Member of Parliament and well-known policy advisor, remembered for his legislative work and service to the people.
The military personnel who were operating the aircraft and also lost their lives were:
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, an experienced pilot with numerous commendations to his name.
- Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, a promising young officer with a growing reputation in military aviation.
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, a disciplined and courageous serviceman known for his loyalty and professionalism.
Details of the Helicopter Tragedy
According to a formal statement released by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), the helicopter had departed from Accra en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. The purpose of the trip was to attend a high-level national event that required the presence of key government figures and security officials.
However, contact with the aircraft was reportedly lost mid-flight. Military radar systems failed to pick up any signal from the helicopter after a certain point, sparking immediate concern and triggering a large-scale search and rescue operation.
“All efforts are being made to establish contact,” read the GAF’s initial press release on the night of the crash. Sadly, those efforts would eventually lead to the grim discovery of the crash site, with the aircraft completely burned and the victims unrecognizable.
Eyewitnesses from nearby communities who later spoke to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz described a horrific scene, stating that the wreckage was engulfed in flames and burned beyond recognition. Some claimed to have seen the aircraft lose altitude before crashing into a remote forested area.
Reactions and Memorials Across the Country
As part of the national response to the tragedy, President Nana Akufo-Addo and the entire government apparatus have extended their deepest sympathies to the grieving families and all citizens affected by this loss. The Office of the President has also declared three days of national mourning, with flags ordered to fly at half-mast across the country.
The Requiem Mass at Pope John Senior High School and Minor Seminary stands as a deeply symbolic moment in the national mourning process. It is not only a tribute to one of the school’s most accomplished old boys but also a moment of reflection for young students about the fragility of life and the importance of public service.
Teachers, students, old boys, religious leaders, and family members gathered in large numbers at the school chapel. Prayers were offered, hymns were sung, and eulogies were read in honor of Dr. Omane Boamah’s enduring legacy. Many who spoke at the ceremony described him as a beacon of discipline, humility, and selfless patriotism—a man whose rise to national prominence was driven by purpose and hard work.
Final Words
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz will continue to follow this developing story as the nation prepares for the official state burial of the deceased. Special programming, interviews, and tributes will be aired in the coming days to honor their lives and service.
The tragedy of August 6 will not soon be forgotten. It has left a void not just in the political and military leadership of Ghana, but also in the hearts of the ordinary citizens who looked up to these individuals as symbols of dedication and national pride.
STORY BY: KENNEDY AMPONSAH NTI
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
NEWS ROOM
