The Member of Parliament for Pusiga, Laadi Ayii Ayamba, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, describing him as a devout Muslim, a principled politician, and a cherished friend.

Dr Murtala, widely admired for his dedication and transformative leadership, died alongside seven others when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region while en route to Obuasi.

Speaking at the Evening of Reflections and Memorial for the fallen heroes, Madam Ayamba recalled the fond memories she shared with Dr Murtala, both inside and outside the chamber, highlighting his humility, eloquence, and unwavering faith.

“Mutala was one who would always pat my shoulder and say, ‘Hajia, I have come’,” she reminisced, adding, “With our jokes as playmates, I can confidently say if for nothing at all, Mutala was a true Muslim always quoting the Qur’an even on the floor of Parliament and ensuring that he translated it.”

She spoke of his intellectual rigour and meticulous approach to debate, noting how he consistently presented arguments grounded in facts, supported by credible references.

“I reflect on the way and manner in which he would present his debates with facts and ensure that he quoted from the necessary references,” she said.

But it was not just his scholarship that stood out. Madam Ayamba praised the late Minister’s self-awareness and humility, qualities she said were rare and admirable in politics.

“I recall the fact that he was someone who would accept whenever he slipped during a submission. He would quickly correct himself and make sure he said it as it is.”

The tribute was among many that have poured in since the tragic passing of Dr Murtala Mohammed, whose contributions to national development and environmental policy were widely respected.

His legacy, she said, would endure in the hearts of those who had the honour of working with him and in the future of the country he served so passionately.