The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025, near Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region.
The crash, which has shocked the nation, claimed the lives of eight individuals — including senior government officials and military officers — plunging the country into mourning.
In a solemn statement signed by Executive Secretary Jeorge Wilson Kingson and President Andrew Edwin Arthur, PRINPAG conveyed its heartfelt condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the bereaved families, and the wider public affected by what it described as a “devastating national tragedy.”
Among those who perished were Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane-Boamah, and Minister for Environment, Science and Innovation, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed — both esteemed for their decades of service and contributions to Ghana’s development.
Other victims included Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafimi Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah.
Acknowledging the immense loss, PRINPAG noted:
“Their contributions to our nation will not be forgotten.”
Amid widespread grief, PRINPAG has urged journalists — particularly its members — to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in covering the tragedy.
“We must remember that behind every name is a family grieving a loved one,” the statement read.
The association called on media practitioners to avoid sensationalism, respect the privacy of grieving families, and ensure all reporting is based on verified, accurate information.
“We implore our colleagues to avoid sensationalism, respect the privacy of the bereaved families, and report only accurate, verified information.”
Reinforcing the role of the media in a time of national mourning, PRINPAG reminded journalists of their responsibility to act with empathy and integrity:
“This is a time for national mourning, and we must uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics and professionalism.”
In solidarity with the rest of the country, PRINPAG paid tribute to the fallen and encouraged Ghanaians to support the bereaved families with compassion and prayers, while also respecting their space during this difficult period.
“We stand in solidarity with the nation in mourning this irreplaceable loss,” the association said, urging the public to avoid actions that may deepen the pain of grieving families.
Final tribute
As the country prepares for state-led funeral arrangements, PRINPAG closed its message with a poignant farewell:
“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.”
The accident is being regarded as one of the most devastating in Ghana’s recent history — not only for the tragic loss of life but also for the stature of the individuals involved. National flags are expected to fly at half-mast as the nation reflects on the lives lost and the enduring service of its fallen leaders.
