The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent Ghanaians, including senior government officials and military officers.
In a solemn statement issued on Thursday, PRINPAG extended condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, the bereaved families, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the incident as a “devastating national tragedy.”
The crash, which occurred on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025, near Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region, resulted in the deaths of Dr. Edward Omane-Boamah, Minister for Defence, and Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.
Also perishing in the crash were former Northern Regional Minister Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Samuel Sarpong, presidential aide Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah.
PRINPAG, in its statement signed by Executive Secretary Jeorge Wilson Kingson and President Andrew Edwin Arthur, called for national unity and responsible media conduct during this period of mourning.
“We must remember that behind every name is a family grieving a loved one. We implore our colleagues to avoid sensationalism, respect the privacy of the bereaved families, and report only accurate, verified information,” the association advised.
The statement emphasized the need for journalists, especially PRINPAG members, to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical reporting as the nation comes to terms with the irreplaceable loss.
“This is a time for national mourning,” PRINPAG added, urging the public to support the affected families with thoughts and prayers while allowing them space to grieve in peace.
As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, tributes have continued to pour in from various quarters, highlighting the remarkable contributions of the deceased to Ghana’s governance and development.
