Presidency calls for tributes ahead of State Funeral for crash victims

The Presidency has invited the public to submit tributes in honour of the eight individuals who lost their lives in the August 6, 2025, military helicopter crash.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 11, the Funeral Planning Committee called on individuals, institutions, and organisations to send messages of condolence and heartfelt tributes for inclusion in the official state funeral brochure.

The statement, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, said the gesture forms part of efforts to collectively honour the victims’ service and sacrifice to the nation.

Tributes can be submitted via email to tributes@prestelencv.RovRh by Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 12:00 noon GMT.

A state funeral will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, starting at 8:00 a.m. The event is expected to draw Ghanaians from all walks of life to pay their final respects.

“The courage, dedication, and spirit of our fallen compatriots should inspire us all to strive for a stronger, more united, and prosperous Ghana,” the statement added.

Two of the victims — Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator — were buried on Sunday, August 10.

Their burial followed the release of forensic reports for all eight victims, whose bodies were severely burnt in the crash. The DNA analyses were conducted in South Africa, with President John Dramani Mahama confirming that the reports for Dr. Murtala and Alhaji Muniru were received electronically.

In accordance with Islamic tradition, Janazah prayers for the two were performed at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, led by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, before they were laid to rest at the Military Cemetery near Burma Camp.

The crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.