The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), have observed the one week celebration of the death of Samuel Aboagye, its Deputy Director General in charge of Protocol, who tragically lost his life in the recent military helicopter crash.
Mr Aboagye, together with seven other statesmen lost their lives in the crash, which occurred on August 6, 2025 at Adansi Akrofrom in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.
The seven others included Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister, Dr Alhaji Murtala Muhammed, the Environment, Science and Technology Minister, and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator.
The rest were Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu and Seargent Ernest Addo Mensah.
These statesmen were en route to Obuasi to participate in the formal launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at combating illegal small-scale mining and promoting responsible, skill-based mining practices.
The one week observation saw the signing of the book of condolences by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and Ghana Prisons Service (GPS), where the GNFS and the GPS laid their wreath in honour of Mr Aboagye.
Mr Ebenezer Teye-Larbi, Deputy Minister for the Interior, said there was much to be learnt from the lives of the eight gallant men who have departed and left all behind.
He said Mr Aboagye was a loving, dedicated, and resilient individual, and a beacon of hope for many, particularly the youth.
“As the Bible reminds us, ‘to live is Christ, and to die is gain.’ Only God knows the reason for this loss. While many questions linger about why it happened and why it involved those dear to us, we trust in His infinite wisdom, he added.
Mr Teye-Larbi said the same God who brought Mr Aboagye into this world had called him home, and that in moments like this, everyone should take comfort from the scriptures, which indicated that “in all things, give thanks to God, for He knows best.”
He said though “we grieve as humans, we also found comfort in the assurance that Mr Aboagye rests in the bosom of the Almighty.
“May his memory be a blessing to us all, and especially to his family. To God be the glory for all He has done for us. Let us remain steadfast in keeping the bonds we share with his loved ones,” he stressed.
Mr Teye-Larbi said the passing of the gallant men should serve as a turning point for those engaged in illegal mining, adding that Galamsey had become an addiction for many, to the extent that they pursued gold regardless of its location, with little regard for the consequences.
He said the tragedy called for deep pause and reflection, especially in light of the very mission on which the victims of the helicopter crash were embarking.
“Those involved in such activities must reconsider their actions and the long-term impact on our nation, our communities, and the environment,” he stressed.
Major (Rtd) Dr Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon, Director General, NADMO, said many of them were still struggling to come to terms with the painful reality, though it was a collective loss as a country, and that all the citizens must bear it together.
Dr Kuyon said each time he met Mr Aboagye, he encountered not only a dedicated colleague but also a future leader, and someone he believed could serve as a role model for generations to come, owing to his insightful contributions to management discussions.
He said Mr Aboagye was always willing to avail himself for duty and showed genuine care for those around him, adding that his presence strengthened the team, and that it was only fitting that those who truly felt part of the NADMO family were present to honour him.
“We take solace in the fact that Aboagye leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and humanity. These values will bind us together and ensure that his memory lingers in our hearts for many years to come.
“To his immediate family, I extend my deepest condolences. We mourn with you, and we will always stand by you,” he added.