The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) and the Civic Forum Initiative (CFI) have joined the nation in mourning the devastating loss of key national figures in Wednesday’s helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

In a joint statement signed by Dr Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Chairperson of CFI, and Kwesi Jonah, Head of Advocacy and Institutional Relations at IDEG, the two respected civil society organisations expressed their deep sorrow over the deaths of eight Ghanaians, including prominent ministers and public servants.

Among the deceased are Dr. Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; and three military officers, all of whom died in the line of service.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to their wives, children and families,” the statement read.

“To President John Dramani Mahama, the government, the Ghana Armed Forces and the National Democratic Congress, we offer our sincere sympathies.”

IDEG and CFI commended the government’s decision to investigate the tragic incident, urging that “appropriate measures be adopted to prevent recurrence in the future.”

As the nation grieves this profound loss, the organisations called for reflection, unity, and collective resolve to honour the legacy of those who gave their lives in service to Ghana.