Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, has revealed that he nearly ordered a nationwide internet shutdown to curb the spread of disturbing footage from the August 6 helicopter crash.

Speaking on the matter in an interview on Accra-based Joy FM, the minister said the decision was considered in response to the rapid circulation of graphic images and videos from the accident, which claimed eight lives in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

The accident claimed the lives of  Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence

Dr. Alhaji Murtala Muhammad, Minister of Environment

Alhaji Muniru Mohammed. Deputy National Security Coordinator

Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman. NDC

Samuel Aboagye

Sqn. Leader Peter Bafemi Anala (Ghana Air Force)

Flying Officer Twum Ampadu (Ghana Air Force)

Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah (Ghana Air Force)

According to him, the spread of such sensitive content risked deepening the grief of bereaved families and raising public distress.

“The thought crossed my mind to shut down the internet entirely, even if for a short period, to protect the dignity of the victims and their relatives,” he said.

Although the shutdown did not materialise, Mr. George urged Ghanaians to exercise restraint and sensitivity when sharing content online, especially in times of national tragedy.