Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has called on Ghanaians to embrace love, compassion, and unity following the tragic August 6 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including senior government officials.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, August 10, she described the tragedy as a wake-up call for the nation.

“Death is a reminder to us, the living, about how transient life is. It is a big reminder to all of us that life is very transient and we can’t account for the next second of our life, so why must we live our lives as if we have control over the next minutes?

“It is a major lesson for us to focus on what matters in life: to love one another, let humanity lead, and show love, fellow feeling, and compassion to others, especially in moments like this,” she said.

Her remarks follow the final burial rites for Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and MP for Tamale Central, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator held today at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, followed by interment at the Military Cemetery in Accra. In accordance with Islamic tradition, Janazah prayers were held for the deceased.

The burial was attended by President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, National Chief Imam Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, bereaved families, government officials, Members of Parliament, the Muslim community, and members of the public.

The crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District also claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; and three crew members — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the Z-9 helicopter, carrying three crew members and five passengers, went “off the radar” shortly after departing Accra at 09:12 GMT. It was en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining operation when the tragedy occurred. A search-and-rescue operation later confirmed that all eight on board had died.

An inter-denominational state funeral for all victims will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Black Star Square.