President John Dramani Mahama has described the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight senior public servants and military officers as a “national tragedy” that has left an indelible scar on Ghana’s heart.

Delivering an emotional tribute at the state funeral on Friday, August 15, the President said the victims were not only colleagues in leadership but also close friends whose absence leaves “a void in our leadership and in my heart.”

“In a single, cruel moment, eight bright lights in our national life were extinguished,” he said.

“The grief we feel is not only the sorrow of individuals but the collective mourning of a people.

The values they lived by — integrity, humility, loyalty — will remain a guiding light for all who follow in their footsteps.”

President Mahama hailed the fallen as leaders whose contributions extended far beyond their official duties, touching lives across every corner of the country.

On August 10, 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.

The remaining six — Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye of NADMO, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — were laid to rest on August 15.

Reflecting on their final moments, the President said they died in active service to the Republic, on a mission to safeguard the nation’s safety, security, and progress.

“They did not seek recognition or applause; they gave of themselves without hesitation for the good of Ghana,” he noted.

The President paid glowing individual tributes, describing Dr. Omane Boamah as “a man of sharp intellect and deep conviction” who spearheaded bold reforms in the Armed Forces; Dr. Murtala Muhammed as a passionate advocate for environmental protection; Alhaji Limuna Muniru as a calm and courageous guardian of national security; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong as a humble unifier in politics.

He praised Samuel Aboagye as a promising young leader at NADMO and saluted the three crew members as “disciplined, highly skilled airmen” embodying honour, courage, and commitment.

He recalled private moments with them — late-night calls, quiet counsel before tough decisions, and shared laughter after victories — as reminders of their warmth and humanity.

President Mahama urged the nation to remain united, avoid speculation, and honour the fallen by upholding the ideals they stood for.

He confirmed that the government has ordered a full and transparent investigation into the crash to ensure such a tragedy is never repeated.

“Though their voices have fallen silent, their legacy will endure,” he said.

“May Ghana — the nation for which they lived and died — remain forever worthy of their sacrifice.”