Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic military helicopter crash of Wednesday, August 6, describing the incident as “a sad loss for Ghana.”

In a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, she extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Government, and the people of Ghana, noting that the loss resonates beyond national borders.

“Their loss is a sad one for the entire country and indeed the international community, many of whom may have interfaced with some of the departed,” she said.

Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings also expressed solidarity with the Ghana Armed Forces, acknowledging the fallen personnel who died in active service.

“My sympathies go also to the officers and men of the Ghana Armed Forces who have lost men who were on duty for God and country,” she stated.

“We pray for comfort, strength and God’s guidance during this very trying period. May the Lord give us all strength and fortitude to mourn during this sorrowful time.

“I pray that the souls of the departed rest in eternal glory,” she added.

The fatal incident claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two senior government officials: Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Also among the deceased were Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, former National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate Mr Samuel Aboagye, and NDC Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong.

The crash also claimed the lives of three Ghana Air Force personnel who served as crew members aboard the aircraft: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The delegation was travelling to Obuasi to attend an anti-illegal mining event when the accident occurred.