“Life Is Fragile, Every Moment Matters” – Speaker Bagbin Pays Tribute to Helicopter Crash Victims

By Joylinda Laryea / 15 August, 2025

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has paid glowing tribute to the eight victims of the tragic August 6 military helicopter crash, describing them as “gallant souls” whose deaths serve as a solemn reminder of life’s unpredictability.

Speaking during the state burial ceremony held on Friday, August 15, the Speaker reflected on the emotional toll of the tragedy, calling on Ghanaians to cherish every moment and continue the unfinished work of the departed.

“Life is fragile, tomorrow is never promised, and every moment matters,” Bagbin remarked. “As we honour their legacy, may we draw strength and wisdom from the way they lived and the way they left.”

He extended Parliament’s condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them of the nation’s solidarity in mourning.

“To the bereaved families, I offer not just the condolences of Parliament, but the collective embrace of a nation united in grief. May the Almighty console us who remain in this transient world and grant us the fortitude to continue their unfinished work,” he said.

Bagbin also offered a final blessing, praying that the victims be received with honours fitting of their national service.

“May the angels receive these noble souls with fanfare befitting their service.”

The ceremony, held at Black Star Square and later at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo, drew government officials, military leaders, families, and citizens in a national moment of reflection.

President John Dramani Mahama also addressed mourners, thanking Ghanaians and international partners for their overwhelming support. He expressed hope that the funeral would mark the beginning of healing for the nation.

“I pray that this funeral will bring closure to a grieving nation and that a new dawn will break in which we can look forward with pride, as Ghanaians, to a prosperous nation,” President Mahama stated. “We pray that this will be the beginning as the Almighty God heals our land.”

The August 6 crash involved a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter en route to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Community and Cooperative Mining Programme. It claimed the lives of:

• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence

• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation

• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate

• Dr. Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman

• Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

• Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu

• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

Their passing has left a deep wound in the nation’s heart  but also a powerful legacy of patriotism, service, and sacrifice.