Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has paid a moving tribute to the eight individuals who perished in the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash, describing them as “gallant souls” whose passing has left an indelible mark on the nation.
Hon. Bagbin’s tribute was delivered during the interdenominational state burial ceremony for six of the victims, a moment that united Parliament, government officials, and citizens in collective mourning.
The Speaker’s words not only captured the grief of the moment but also offered a profound reminder about the brevity of life.
“Life is fragile, tomorrow is never promised, and every moment matters. As we honour their legacy, may we draw strength and wisdom from the way they lived – and the way they left”
Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament
The crash claimed the lives of prominent figures including Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, who were buried on August 10.
The remaining six laid to rest at the state funeral were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Speaker Bagbin, who was outside Ghana when the tragedy struck, said his spirit had been with the grieving nation throughout the sorrowful journey. He spoke of the deceased as leaders and servants whose efforts had touched lives, strengthened institutions, and left a lasting imprint on Ghana’s development.
“The cruel hands of fate have plucked from our midst eight radiant stars whose light illuminated our nation’s path. Today, I stand before you soaked in tears, with a heart shattered by this irretrievable loss, yet overflowing with gratitude for the extraordinary lives that graced our land”
Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament
Remembering the Lives Lost
The Speaker recalled how many of the victims had recently attended the funerals of former Ghanaian diplomats Kobina Ade Coker and Sam Pee Yalley, never imagining that their own departures would follow so soon.
He described this as a “cruel twist of fate,” that had deepened the nation’s grief.
In his tribute, Hon. Bagbin highlighted the diverse contributions of the deceased – from ministerial leadership to parliamentary insight and military dedication. He said they were once ministers whose policies sowed seeds of progress, technocrats who steered the nation’s course, and courageous helicopter crew members who served diligently until their final moments.
“These gallant men were the very embodiment of Ghana’s highest aspirations. They were the loving hands that cradled children, the wise voices that guided families, the charitable hands that fed families and whole communities, the compassionate hearts that uplifted our dear country”
Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament
Hon. Bagbin assured the bereaved families that they were not alone in their pain, as the condolences of Parliament extended to encompass the entire nation. He called for strength and wisdom to carry forward the unfinished work of the departed.
“To the bereaved families – May the Almighty console us who remain in this transient world, and grant us the fortitude to continue their unfinished work. May the angels receive these noble souls with fanfare befitting their service”
Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament
The Speaker urged Ghanaians to take to heart the lesson that life’s uncertainty demands that every moment be cherished. He said the legacy of the eight would remain etched in the laws they championed, the institutions they fortified, and the hope they inspired.
As the final prayers are said and the coffins lowered, the nation bids farewell to eight individuals whose service, sacrifice, and sudden passing have left a lasting void.
The ceremony observed a note of solemnity, with Bagbin’s words lingering as a reminder of the fragility of existence and the enduring call to live with purpose.
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