The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed profound sorrow over the deaths of eight Ghanaians in the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash, describing the tragedy as a blow to the nation’s spirit.

In a statement signed by Chairman Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, the Council said the victims — five prominent public servants and three Ghana Air Force officers — were on their way to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) when the fatal incident occurred.

Those who perished in the crash were identified as:

Hon. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah

Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed

Alhaji Muniru Mohammed

Dr. Samuel Sarpong

Mr. Samuel Aboagye

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

Flying Officer Twum Ampadu

Flight Sergeant Ernest Addo

The Council praised the victims for their dedication, patriotism, and humility, describing them as “symbols of duty and courage” whose legacies would endure.

The statement also conveyed condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the bereaved families, and the entire nation, noting that the tragedy has left Ghana united in grief.

“At this moment of national sorrow, we call on all Ghanaians, regardless of political persuasion, to unite and honour the memory of these heroes with dignity,” the Council said.

The August 6 crash has drawn nationwide mourning and tributes from across the political divide.