The State funeral for the eight victims of the August 6 helicopter crash is underway in Accra, with six of the deceased scheduled to be laid to rest today under full military honours.
The solemn ceremony, taking place at the Black Star Square, has brought together government officials, security chiefs, traditional leaders, diplomats, and thousands of mourners to pay their last respects.
The event combines Christian, Islamic, and military traditions, with scriptural recitals, prayers, and ceremonial rites preceding the final interment at the military cemetery in Tse Addo.
Two victims have already been buried according to Islamic rites, while today’s proceedings will see the remaining six taken to their final resting place.
Families and friends, in their tribute, described the deceased as “patriots who gave their all in service to Ghana” and stressed that they would be remembered for their sacrifice and dedication.
The crash in Adansi Akrofuom claimed the lives of five top state officials and three Ghana Armed Forces personnel, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, and NADMO Deputy Director-General Samuel Aboagye.
The three-member crew—Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah—were also among the casualties.
The government has assured tight security and called for strict decorum during the rites, with media coverage centralised by the Armed Forces to ensure dignity and solemnity.
Books of condolence have been opened across key ministries and party offices, giving Ghanaians an opportunity to express their grief as the nation bids farewell to the fallen.
