By Emmanuel Nyatsikor
Adaklu Waya (V/R), Aug. 07, GNA – Mr. Jerry Yao Ameko, the Adaklu District Chief Executive (DCE) and Dean of Volta Region Municipal and District Chief Executives Thursday on behalf of his colleagues sent a message of condolence to the President, government, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and bereaved families on the tragic loss of eight gallant sons of the country.
“On behalf of my colleagues, I extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency Mr. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic, the government, the NDC, the Ghana Armed forces and bereaved families following the tragic demise of the eight gallant and patriotic sons of the country,” he stated.
This was contained in a release signed by Mr. Ameko to the media, at Adaklu Waya in the Adaklu District.
The deceased were on board a Ghana Armed Forces helicopter (GHAF) Z9 to a national programme at Obuasi when the tragic incident occurred.
They were Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment; Alhaji Minuri Mohammed, Acting National Security Coordinator and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, National Vice Chairman of the NDC.
The others are Mr. Samuel Aboagye, former NDC Parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Amala, Flying Officer Manaem Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo.
Mr. Ameko stated that the heart wrenching incident was a blow not only to the bereaved families but the whole country.
“These distinguished patriots dedicated their lives in service to our nation and their sudden departure is a big blow to every Ghanaian who yearns for a peaceful and a prosperous country.
“Their commitment, bravery and sense of duty will remain etched in our collective memories,” he noted.
The Dean said as the country mourned, it should also celebrate the lives of the deceased that embodied courage, patriotism, and sacrifice.
He stated that their passing called for unity, resilience and the strengthening of the very ideals the stood and died for.
“We join the President of the Republic, the government, the NDC, the Ghana Armed Forces the affected families and all Ghanaians in grief and prayer during this dark hour,” Mr. Ameko said.
He prayed that the Almighty God grant the souls of the deceased eternal rest, and comfort, strengthen and grant the bereaved families peace and healing.
President Mahama has called for a three-day national mourning which begins this Thursday.
The President also directed that all flags should fly at half-mast.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah