In a moment of solemn reflection and national mourning, the King of the Gonja Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, has extended his deepest condolences to the families of eight Ghanaians who tragically lost their lives in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
The unfortunate incident, involving a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter, sent shockwaves throughout the country, prompting an outpouring of grief and sympathy from various sectors of society. Among the victims was Sandapewura Alhaji Lammuna Mohammed Muniru, a respected and beloved son of the Gonja Kingdom, whose passing has been particularly painful for his people and the traditional leadership of the region.
In a heartfelt statement issued by the Gonja Traditional Council on behalf of the Yagbonwura and shared through EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, the King described the deceased as “national heroes” whose sacrifices and service will never be forgotten.
A Kingdom in Mourning
“It is with profound sorrow that the Gonja Kingdom, under the leadership of His Royal Majesty Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, received the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter,” the statement began.
“This heartbreaking incident claimed the lives of distinguished Ghanaian officials and revered citizens, including Sandapewura Alhaji Lammuna Mohammed Muniru, a cherished son of the Gonja land, and other national heroes whose names will be etched into the annals of our national memory.”
The King, who is widely known for his commitment to peace, unity, and traditional leadership, expressed not only his personal grief but also the collective sorrow of the entire Gonja Kingdom. The loss, he said, “is not just a blow to Gonjas or to the immediate families of the victims, but to the whole nation and to all people who value peace, service, and sacrifice.”
Solidarity with the Nation
The Gonja Traditional Council, speaking through EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, affirmed that the Kingdom stands in full solidarity with the Government of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the bereaved families, and shares in the heavy burden of national grief that has enveloped the country.
“The Gonja Kingdom joins the government and the people of Ghana in mourning this great loss, which has shaken the nation to its core. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all bereaved families and pledge our unyielding support and prayers during this period of immeasurable pain and sorrow.”
The statement emphasized that moments like these require national unity, reflection, and reverence for the contributions of those who served the country with honour.
Honouring the Legacy of the Departed
The Yagbonwura paid glowing tribute to the lives and legacies of the fallen, stressing that their dedication to duty and nationhood should serve as an example to future generations. He called on Ghanaians to uphold the values for which these individuals stood—service, courage, patriotism, and humility.
“As a Kingdom rooted in tradition and unity, we honour the legacy of those who have passed and recognize the profound contributions they made to our people and our country. Their memories will not fade. Their sacrifices will not go unappreciated. They have earned the gratitude of a nation,” the statement noted.
A Call for National Reflection and Prayer
In concluding his message, His Royal Majesty Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I offered prayers for strength for the grieving families, comfort for the nation, and eternal peace for the departed souls.
“We pray for strength for the families, comfort for the nation, and eternal rest for the departed souls. May their memory endure in peace and dignity. And may Ghana forever remain a country that honours its heroes—not only in words but in the collective unity and resilience of its people.”
As the nation continues to come to terms with this devastating loss, the sentiments shared by the Gonja Kingdom through its traditional leadership offer not only comfort but also a reminder of the enduring values of community, honour, and service.
For ongoing updates, tributes, and reflections on this national tragedy, stay connected to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz.
STORY BY: KENNEDY NTI AMPONSAH
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