The Ghanaian government has confirmed the identities of the eight individuals who lost their lives in Wednesday morning’s military helicopter crash.

The incident involved a Z-9 aircraft operated by the Ghana Armed Forces, which reportedly lost contact mid-flight while en route from Accra to Obuasi, where its occupants were scheduled for an official assignment.

In a statement posted on its official X handle, the Ghana Armed Forces disclosed that all eight people on board the helicopter were killed.

The deceased include top government officials and military personnel. They are: Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture.

Others are: Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; Peter Baafemi Anala, a Squadron Leader; Manaen Twum Ampadu, a Flying Officer; and Ernest Addo, a Sergeant.

Reacting to the tragedy, Ghanaian President John Mahama described the crash as a national disaster and immediately called off his engagements upon receiving the news.

He also directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the victims. (TRIBUNE)