The somber air hanging over Ghana following the tragic military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, prompted Dr. Mensa Otabil, founder of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), to lead a poignant prayer session during the Greater Works Conference at the Christ Temple in Accra. The crash, which claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two government ministers and three air force personnel, sent shockwaves throughout the nation. Dr. Otabil’s heartfelt prayer served as a balm for the collective grief, offering solace and strength to the families grappling with the sudden and devastating loss. His words resonated deeply with thousands of congregants, acknowledging the profound sorrow while invoking the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit to mend the shattered hearts of those affected.
The helicopter crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, cast a pall over the nation. The Z-9 aircraft, carrying senior government officials and military personnel, lost radar contact while en route to Obuasi. A frantic search operation led to the discovery of the wreckage in a forested area, confirming the tragic loss of all onboard. The incident not only brought sorrow to the families of the deceased but also shook the nation, highlighting the inherent risks faced by those serving in public capacities.
The loss of life included prominent figures in Ghanaian society, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. Their contributions to the nation were significant, leaving a void in leadership and public service. The tragedy also claimed the lives of Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, further underscoring the magnitude of the loss.
The crash also dealt a heavy blow to the Ghana Air Force, with the loss of three dedicated crew members: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah. Their service and sacrifice to the nation were acknowledged in the outpouring of grief and tributes that followed the tragic incident. Their loss served as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in military service and the ultimate sacrifice made by those who dedicate their lives to protecting their country.
The national response to the tragedy reflected the collective sense of sorrow and loss. President John Dramani Mahama suspended all official engagements for the week, allowing time for mourning and reflection. The directive to fly national flags at half-mast served as a visible symbol of the nation’s grief and respect for those who perished. Tributes poured in from all sectors of society, including political leaders, religious institutions, and international partners, underscoring the impact of the tragedy on both a national and international level.
Dr. Otabil’s prayer, delivered amidst the pervasive grief, offered a message of hope and resilience. His words echoed the sentiments of a nation grappling with loss, while emphasizing the importance of faith and spiritual support during times of profound sorrow. The prayer provided a moment of reflection and solace, reminding Ghanaians of the power of community and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The church, as a pillar of support within the community, played a crucial role in providing comfort and guidance during this difficult time, offering a space for healing and reflection in the wake of the national tragedy.
