By Intisaab Abu Monor
The Assemblies of God, Ghana, has joined the nation in mourning the tragic loss of eight distinguished Ghanaians, including Defence Minister Dr. Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Mutarla Mohammed, who perished in a helicopter crash.
In a statement signed by the General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Ernest Birikorang, the church described the incident as “heartbreaking, soul-wrenching and earth-shaking,” noting that it serves as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and the brevity of human existence.
“This tragedy reminds us, once again, of the fragility of man and the brevity of life,” the statement read. “It stresses the imperative necessity to pray more as individuals, the church and the nation, while we sharpen our focus on things of eternal value, and not things of temporary gratification.”
The release further disclosed that during the First Assemblies of God Pastors and Spouses Prayer Retreat, special prayers were offered for the bereaved families and the nation. Rev. Dr. Birikorang said the church stands in solidarity with President John Dramani Mahama, the government, and the Ghana Armed Forces in consoling the families of the fallen heroes.
“To the grieving families, we say take solace in the fact that ‘the Lord heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds’ (Psalm 147:3),” the General Secretary assured.
The Assemblies of God expressed hope that the wave of unity witnessed in the aftermath of the tragedy will be sustained beyond the period of mourning. “We hope that the semblance of national unity orchestrated by this tragedy will continually bind us together, irrespective of our political differences, social class, age bracket, ethnic origins, and religious beliefs,” the statement urged.
In addition to the state funeral arrangements announced by President Mahama, the church has proposed lasting measures to honour the legacy of the eight men who, according to the release, “paid the supreme sacrifice” in service to the nation.
Rev. Dr. Birikorang suggested the establishment of support schemes and award packages for the dependents of the deceased. He said such initiatives would serve as a tangible demonstration that Ghana values the lives and sacrifices of those who serve her with distinction.
“This gesture will go a long way to underline the point that Ghana, our beloved nation, is indeed worth dying for,” he said.
The call from the Assemblies of God, Ghana, adds to a growing chorus of voices urging not only national reflection but also concrete action to preserve the memories and honour the contributions of the fallen.
As the nation prepares for the state funeral, the church is encouraging all citizens to unite in grief, prayer, and commitment to building a Ghana where the values of service, sacrifice, and unity are cherished and upheld.
