On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) honoured the eight public servants who died in the tragic helicopter crash with a wreath-laying exercise at the Ceremonial Garden of the Jubilee House.
Led by Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Toni Aubynn, Deputy CEO of Finance and Administration, Halimatu Sadia Abdulai Abu, and other management members, the PHDC paid tribute to the eight who are now referred to as “the fallen heroes.”
In his brief remarks following the wreath-laying, Dr Aubynn, on behalf of the PHDC, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for divine comfort during this difficult time.
Dr Aubynn also expressed sympathy to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, who has been profoundly affected by the loss of key members of his administration.
“This tragedy is heartbreaking, and we pray that Almighty God receives their souls. Our thoughts are with the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, the people of Ghana, and the families of these fallen heroes. May such a tragedy never befall our nation again. May their souls rest in peace with their Creator,” he said.
Following the ceremony, Dr Aubynn visited some institutions to sign books of condolence in honour of the crash victims.
At the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) office in Accra, Dr Aubynn signed the book of condolence for Samuel Aboagye, a Deputy Director-General of NADMO.
Reflecting on his last encounter with the vibrant Samuel Aboagye, which occurred the night before the tragic incident in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on 6 August 2025, Dr Aubynn shared fond memories.
He noted that Aboagye regarded him as a mentor and sought his guidance in his burgeoning political career, which was tragically cut short.
Dr Aubynn also participated in a solemn pre-burial ceremony held by NADMO in honour of Samuel Aboagye.
Next, Dr Aubynn visited the Ministry of Defence, where he signed the book of condolence for Dr Edward Omane Boamah, a colleague he had known for over a decade and with whom he maintained a strong relationship.
Reflecting on Dr Omane Boamah’s life, Dr Aubynn recounted two incidents that underscored the late Minister of Defence’s resourcefulness, importance, and congeniality.
He also paid tribute to the three military officers who lost their lives in the crash, offering messages of comfort to their families.
From the Ministry of Defence, Dr Aubynn and his entourage proceeded to the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) to sign a book of condolence for the late Minister, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
Dr Aubynn described the late Minister and lawmaker as a principled and patriotic citizen who served Ghana with utmost passion and integrity.
He emphasised that Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed remained steadfast in his faith and devotion to Allah. Dr Aubynn also noted that Ghana had lost one of its gallant servants, who consistently prioritised the nation’s interests.
Finally, Dr Aubynn visited the headquarters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), where a book of condolence had been opened in honour of Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Samuel Aboagye, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed (Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator), and Dr Samuel Sarpong (Vice Chairman of the NDC).
Throughout the visits, Dr Aubynn maintained a consistent message of support and prayers for the families of all eight fallen heroes and for President John Dramani Mahama, who has been deeply affected by this tragic loss.
