The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has called for responsible media coverage following the tragic military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region that claimed the lives of eight prominent Ghanaians, including two serving ministers.
The accident, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District on Wednesday, August 6, has plunged the nation into deep mourning. Among those who perished were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six others comprising senior government officials and military personnel.
Speaking on Friday, August 8, after leading a GJA delegation to lay flowers in honour of the victims, Mr. Dwumfour described the incident as one of the darkest moments in the country’s history.
“Wednesday was indeed a Black Wednesday for Ghana. Watching, listening and observing the pains, the grief across the country, the misfortune that has befallen us as a nation, we’re very saddened, we’re heartbroken”
Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association
He added that the GJA’s visit was to commiserate with President John Dramani Mahama, the government, the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and the families of the victims. “As members of the inky fraternity and leadership of the 4th Estate, we can’t sit back,” he expressed, stressing the GJA’s duty of paying last respects to the “gallant soldiers and gallant men” who perished in this unfortunate crash.
Mr. Dwumfour emphasised the need for decency in reporting the tragedy and urged journalists all over to avoid sensationalism ans insensitivity during the national mourning period.
“This is a national tragedy, and we owe it as a duty to preserve it with much decency and dignity. It’s a reason we have cautioned the media and journalists in this country to be very circumspect as we mourn our fallen heroes”
Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association
The GJA’s call comes amid widespread media attention and public discussion of the crash, which has generated emotional reactions nationwide.
First Lady’s Emotional Tribute
First Lady Lordina Mahama also paid an emotional tribute to the victims during the flower-laying ceremony. Accompanied by her children, dignitaries, and mourners, Mrs. Mahama broke down in tears while honouring the deceased.
The scene, which drew sympathy from attendees, saw her being comforted by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and her children. Communications Minister Sam George was also visibly emotional, shedding tears during the ceremony.
The solemn event formed part of a series of national mourning activities planned ahead of the state burial scheduled for August 15, 2025.
The eight victims of the crash, besides Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and MP for Tamale Central were: Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, National Vice Chairman of the NDC
Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah also lost their lives.
Tributes continue to pour in from political leaders, institutions, and citizens, with the nation united in grief.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the state burial will be a formal occasion to honour the service and sacrifice of the victims. The ceremony is expected to attract high-profile dignitaries from across the political spectrum and international community.
The crash, which has shaken the nation, remains under investigation by relevant authorities, with the cause yet to be officially determined. For now, the focus remains on mourning, unity, and ensuring that the memories of those lost are preserved with respect.
“May the souls of our gallant compatriots rest in perfect peace,” the GJA President concluded.
READ MORE: Germany Halts Arms Exports To Israel For Use In Gaza
