Ghana Developing Communities Association (GDCA), an NGO, has paid tribute to the memory of the eight state officials including two Ministers of State, who perished in the August 06 helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.
The tribute, signed by Alhaji Osman Abdel-Rahman, Executive Director of GDCA, extolled the virtues of the deceased saying they gave their all in the service of the nation.
It said “From GDCA, with hearts burdened by sorrow, we come together to honour the memory of eight gallant souls; two distinguished Ministers of State and six dedicated citizens, whose lives were cut short in a tragic helicopter crash that has shaken our nation to its core.”
It said “Among them were Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, and Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; leaders, whose contributions to our country were marked by deep patriotism, intellectual strength, and an unrelenting commitment to service.”
It said “Dr Omane Boamah was more than a Minister for Defence; he was a man of principle and integrity, whose sense of duty to our Armed Forces and national security was unwavering.
His leadership was defined by calm strength, strategic vision, and a firm belief in peace through preparedness.”
It said “He stood shoulder to shoulder with our service men and women, not from afar but with his feet on the ground, and his heart in the mission of defending our nation.”
The tribute said “Alhaji Dr Murtala Muhammed was a distinguished icon of integrity and a passionate advocate for transparency and accountability.”
It said “He spoke truth to power regardless of who was concerned. As Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, he brought a rare blend of conviction and expertise to the table championing policies on environmental sustainability, scientific advancement and innovation that looked not only at today but generations to come.”
It said “His voice was a clarion call for a nation that must both prosper and preserve.”
The tribute said “The six others, who perished alongside them, who dedicated themselves to the service of the country, are not forgotten.”
It said “They were committed public servants, each performing their duty with courage, professionalism, and honour. Their names may not always make headlines but their sacrifice is no less significant.”
It said “They were all united by purpose; onboard not just a helicopter but a shared mission of national service. And though they now rest beyond our reach, their lives remain imprinted on the soul of this nation.”
It said “To the families, colleagues, and loved ones left behind; we extend our deepest condolences. Your loss is our collective grief. In your pain, we stand with you, not just in this moment of mourning but in the days and years to come as we work to honour their legacy.”
It said “Let this tragedy not only be a moment of loss but a call to unity, to greater safety, and to a deeper reverence for those, who give their all in service of our country.”
“May the souls of Dr Omane Boamah, Alhaji Dr Murtala Muhammed and the six others, who journeyed with them, rest in perfect peace. May their memories be a guiding light for all, who follow in their path”, it added.
It said “GDCA extends its profound condolences to the President of the Republic, John
Dramani Mahama, the Government, the families of the fallen heroes, and the people
of Ghana for this unforgettable loss.”
