The Ghanaian Minaret

Accra: Sheikh Usman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam of Ghana, has expressed condolences with the government and families of eight bereaved persons who died in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

Among the victims were two Muslim personalities, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, Minister of Environment Science and Technology, and Alhaji Mohammed Limuna Muniru, Deputy National Security Coordinator.

In a statement signed by Dr Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the Chief Imam, the Muslim leader described the incident as a national disaster that required a sense of unity irrespective of political, ethnic, and religious affiliations.

He, therefore, called for national resilience to deal with the calamity.

“His Eminence advises the Government and the Military High Command not to despair because of the tragedy. It should rather be an opportunity to increase investment in the qualitative and quantitative improvement of the flying squadron for maximum safety, security, and efficiency, adds the Revered Imam,” the statement read.

He also called for sensitivity, respect, and adherence to cultural norms and professional ethics in the media coverage.

Other victims of the helicopter crash were Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); and Mr Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate.

The rest are Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, pilot; Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, co-pilot; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, a crew member.

The victims’ bodies have been transported to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.

President John Dramani Mahama has since declared three days of national mourning beginning Thursday, August 7, to honour the deceased.