Mustapha Gbande is Deputy General Secretary of the NDC
Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has described the tragic military helicopter crash at Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region, which claimed eight lives on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, as a moment of sober reflection and national reckoning.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 7, 2025, he said the loss of the 8 lives in such a manner was shocking.
“We acknowledge the heavy toll we have faced. Eight brave souls have been lost, taken from us in a manner that feels both unreasonable and shocking. This tragedy is not one that will be forgotten quickly”, he noted.
Mustapha Gbande stressed the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the crash.
“This tragedy is not one that will be forgotten quickly. A thorough technical investigation is imperative, and we must also conduct a spiritual and political examination of the circumstances surrounding this loss. It is an affront not only to President Mahama, but also to our party leadership, the government, and the people of Ghana who strive for a better future. We cannot allow this to fade away as it has in the past, leaving our burdens solely to God,” he noted.
He also called on all public officials to make their safety a priority.
“All frontline operatives during elections, senior government appointees, and party members must prioritize self-preservation and protection. We must stand firm in our convictions, regardless of the challenges we face.
“In this time of emotional turmoil and devastation, it is crucial to remain vigilant, as the potential for further hardship is real. True strength lies in our ability to fight for our cause and honor the memories of our fallen brothers,” he added.
Among those who died during the crash were the Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Also on board the ill-fated flight were Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Muniru Mohammed; former Parliamentary Candidate Samuel Aboagye, and Samuel Sarpong, a former Ashanti Regional Minister and now Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The three crew members, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah were also killed in the crash.
A three-day national mourning period has since been declared in honour of the victims.
JKB/AE
Watch the emotional moment Omane Boamah’s mother was escorted from her residence to Accra
