Jonathan condoles with Mahama over deadly Ghana military helicopter crash

Former Nigeria President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has condoled with President John Mahama and the people of the Republic of Ghana over the deadly military helicopter crash in the southern Ashanti region that killed the country’s defense and environment ministers as well as six others on Wednesday.

Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed were among the five passengers on board the helicopter, as well as three crew members when the plane crashed en route from the capital of Accra to Obuasi, a mining town in southern Ghana.

In his condolence message, Dr. Jonathan described it as a devastating loss not only for Ghana but the entire sub-region, noting that the victims “were committed public servants who gave their lives in service to the country.”

Jonathan stated: “It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I received the tragic news of the military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Environment, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed and other distinguished officers and citizens.

"This devastating loss is not only a tragedy for Ghana, but for all of us in the West African sub-region who stand in solidarity with your nation in this moment of mourning. They were committed public servants who gave their lives in service to country and duty, and their passing leaves a painful void in the hearts of many.

“I join you in paying tribute to their patriotism and the sacrifices they made for the peace, security, and progress of Ghana. I pray that their legacy continues to inspire future generations of Ghanaian leaders. May God grant you, the affected families, and the people of Ghana the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. And may the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.

“On behalf of my family, the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, and the people of Nigeria, I extend my deepest condolences to you, the Government and people of Ghana, and the bereaved families at this difficult time.”