The Tobinco Group of Companies has described the recent military helicopter crash that killed eight top government and military officials as a “colossal loss to the nation,” joining a growing chorus of grief across the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 7, Executive Chairman Nana Samuel Amo Tobbin expressed profound sorrow over the tragic deaths of two cabinet ministers, three other senior government officials, and three Ghana Air Force personnel.
“This chilling and devastating happening has sent shock waves and deep sorrow throughout the entire Group of Companies since Wednesday. This is an extremely unfortunate and colossal loss to the entire country, as these vibrant men who were on a national assignment hold great value to the nation and its development,” the statement said.
The Executive Chairman conveyed heartfelt condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the bereaved families, and the people of Ghana, pledging the Group’s solidarity in this period of national mourning.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to you in solidarity in this difficult time of national disaster. May the good Lord Himself comfort and strengthen you in this tragedy,” he said.
The helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom claimed the lives of:
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman
Along with three military crew: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Initial reports indicate the victims were on board a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter bound for Obuasi when it went off radar during a national assignment.
President Mahama has declared a state funeral, scheduled for Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square in Accra.