More tributes continue to pour in from across the country for the eight Ghanaians who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region on August 6.The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has expressed empathy with the bereaved families, emphasising that they were not alone in this moment of divine trial.He described the August 6, fatal crash as a national disaster of a collective grief, irrespective of our political, ethnic, and religious affiliations and, therefore, called for national resilience and unity in the face of this calamity.The Chief Imam advised the government and the Military High Command not to despair because of the tragedy, noting that it should rather be an opportunity to increase investment in the qualitative and quantitative improvement of the flying squadron for maximum safety, security, and efficiency.Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu further appealed to the media to be measured in the discussion of the incident to avoid the violation of cultural norms and professional ethics.The National Chief Imam included a prayer for the nation for divine mercy on the departed souls.The Federation of Muslim Councils (FMC), Ghana, said it was deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter crash that has claimed the lives of esteemed government officials and military personnel, resulting in a national tragedy of immense proportions."On behalf of Muslims in Ghana, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the President, Government of Ghana, and the bereaved families on this dark day."May Allah grant the deceased Jannat-al-Firdaus (Garden of Paradise) and give their families patience, fortitude, and solace during this difficult time.
We pray that Allah comforts the bereaved families and friends, granting them strength and resilience.
May the legacy of the deceased continue to inspire us all," the statement added.The Muslim Community of Adentan, in its tribute signed by Sheikh Mohammed Mutawakil Abubakari, Chief Imam - Adentan Municipality, stated that: "With profound sorrow and complete submission to the divine will of Allah (SWT), l, on behalf of the Muslim community of Adentan Municipality and in my capacity as Chief Imam, extend our deepest condolences to Your Excellency and the entire nation for the tragic loss of our eight distinguished compatriots.Sheikh Mohammed MutawakilAbubakari, Chief Imam - Adentan Municipality"We mourn the passing of five eminent government Officials:Dr Edward Omane Boamah; Alhaji Dr Mohammed Murtala Ibrahim; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed; Dr Samuel Sarpong; Mr Samuel AboagyeAnd three valiant officers of the Ghana Air Force: Squadron Leader, Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer, Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo."The Holy Quran consoles us: To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return (Quran 2:156)."While we grieve their untimely departure, we take comfort in knowing that these patriots served our nation with dedication and honour."The late government officials contributed significantly to national development through their various portfolios, while the Air Force officers served with bravery and commitment to protecting our sovereignty.
Their collective legacy will forever remain in our nation's history."May Allah (SWT) grant their families, colleagues, and all Ghanaians the strength to bear this irreparable loss?