Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has paid a heartfelt tribute to the eight victims of the tragic military helicopter crash, describing them as patriots who “served their nation and humanity well.”
Speaking at the Evening of Reflections and Memorials held on Saturday at the Forecourt of the State House, the Vice President delivered an emotional address that honoured the lives and contributions of the deceased, while urging the nation to embrace unity, sober reflection, and renewed dedication to Ghana’s progress.
“We recognize the quality of the material they brought to the national table, which is the agenda for development. They have played their roles, and admirably so. They have served their nation and humanity well,” she said.
The ceremony formed part of the three-day national mourning period declared by President John Mahama following Wednesday’s crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District, which claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Deputy NADMO Director-General Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
READ: Vice President calls for unity and sobriety in honour of helicopter crash victims
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reflected on the nation’s grief, acknowledging the anger, sadness, and unanswered questions the tragedy has sparked. She urged Ghanaians to avoid apportioning blame and instead focus on learning from the incident to prevent future mishaps.
“This is not a time for distasteful gloating over the misfortune, for postulation or for apportioning blame. It is a time for sober reflection, for paying attention to detail and to facts,” she emphasised.
She called on the country to consider whether the barriers that divide Ghanaians are worth maintaining, and to work collectively towards the advancement of the nation.
“It is a time for the rest of us, all of us, to renew our pledge to work in ways that truly advance our country, as they have tried to do,” she added.
The solemn event brought together government officials, military officers, political leaders, bereaved families, and citizens from all walks of life to honour the memory of the fallen, offering prayers and tributes for their service and sacrifice.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
