The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Koforidua, Most Rev. Joseph Afrifah-Agyekum, has urged religious leaders to exercise restraint and sensitivity when speaking publicly about the August 6 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Dr Edward Omane Boamah and seven others.

Speaking at a vigil organised by the Eastern Region branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) at the Koforidua Jackson Park on Wednesday, August 13, Bishop Afrifah-Agyekum cautioned against using the tragedy as a platform for unfounded prophecies and speculative claims.

“This is where we have to be very, very cautious. We who are men and women of God, religious leaders, have to be very careful, especially in situations like this,” he stressed. “Don’t let us capitalise on it and come out with all kinds of unfounded and so-called prophetic messages.”

The Bishop, who had earlier signed the book of condolence for Dr Boamah, reminded clergy of the emotional toll such public declarations could have on grieving families.

“How do we come out to say something when maybe it is not even true? We should not forget the families are there, the wives, the children, the immediate family members and loved ones. What are we churning out in the name of prophecy?” he asked.

He called on all religious leaders to prioritise prayer and discretion, even if they believe they have received divine revelations. “Let us be very careful. Let’s pray hard. Even if you think God has revealed something to you, let us be circumspect about it,” he said.

The solemn vigil brought together NDC members, residents of Koforidua, and the clergy to honour the eight victims, including Dr Boamah, whose contributions to the party and the nation were widely acknowledged during the event.

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