First Lady Lordina Mahama was overcome with emotion as she joined mourners to pay tribute to the eight victims of Wednesday’s military helicopter crash. At a solemn wreath-laying ceremony in memory of the deceased, Mrs. Mahama, accompanied by her children, senior government officials, and other mourners, placed flowers in honour of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.
The crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and three military officers Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
As the First Lady stood before the memorial, her voice faltered and her eyes filled with tears. She was seen wiping her face repeatedly before breaking down, prompting Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and her children to step forward to comfort her. The moment drew visible sympathy from many in attendance, some of whom also struggled to hold back their emotions.
The grief in the air was palpable. Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation Samuel Nartey George, who was also present, could not contain his emotions and was seen wiping away tears during the ceremony. The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow, as mourners reflected on the sudden loss of prominent national figures and dedicated servicemen whose contributions to the country had been cut short.
The tragedy, which has plunged the nation into mourning, continues to draw condolences from across Ghana and beyond, with national flags flying at half-mast in honour of the victims.