Nigeria’s President Tinubu Sends Condolences to Ghana After Deadly Helicopter Crash

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has expressed deep sympathy to Ghana’s former president, John Mahama, and the people of Ghana following a helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Defence Minister Edward Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Muhammed, and six other individuals.

In a statement released on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu assured Mahama and the entire nation of Ghana that the thoughts and prayers of the Nigerian government and its people are with them during this tragic time. He encouraged the grieving families and the nation to find comfort in knowing that those lost in the crash had died in the service of their country.

Tinubu also prayed for the eternal peace of the souls of the deceased and strength for their loved ones left behind.

According to the Ghanaian military, a helicopter carrying three crew members and five passengers went off radar on Wednesday. The wreckage, shown in footage broadcast by Joy News, was found in a remote, heavily forested area.

Among the victims was Muniru Mohammed, Ghana’s deputy national security coordinator and former agriculture minister, as well as Samuel Sarpong, vice chairman of Mahama’s National Democratic Congress party.

Boamah, who had been appointed as Defence Minister earlier this year, and Muhammed, who was serving as Environment, Science, and Technology Minister, were both among the deceased.

Reports indicate that the helicopter was en route to an event addressing the growing issue of illegal mining in Ghana, a major environmental concern in the West African nation. All those aboard the helicopter were confirmed dead.