NDC Chairman Nketiah Reveals Near Miss in Fatal Military Helicopter Crash
NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah reveals he was originally scheduled to be on the military helicopter that crashed in the Ashanti Region, killing eight including two ministers.
NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah speaking about the tragic helicopter crash that claimed eight lives in Ghana's Ashanti Region
NDC National Chairman Narrowly Avoids Tragic Helicopter Incident
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has revealed he was originally scheduled to be aboard the military helicopter that crashed in Ghana's Ashanti Region, claiming eight lives including two government ministers.
Speaking while visiting bereaved families, Nketiah disclosed that a last-minute change of plans led to former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Samuel Sarpong taking his place on the ill-fated flight. "Allah does what he wants," Nketiah reflected. "I was supposed to be on the flight, and last minute, I directed my vice chairman, Dr. Sarpong, to go and stand in for the party."
Details of the Tragic Incident
The Z-9 helicopter crashed in dense forest near Adansi Akrofuom while en route from Accra to Obuasi for a state event. Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed were among those who lost their lives.
Eyewitness Accounts
Multiple witnesses reported challenging conditions during the flight. One observer noted the helicopter was flying at an unusually low altitude in poor weather before striking a tree and a mountain. Another witness described hearing the aircraft pass by followed by a loud bang.
Government Response
President Mahama has appointed Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as acting Defence Minister and Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah to temporarily oversee Environment, Science and Technology. The victims' remains have been sent to South Africa for DNA analysis to aid identification.
Edwin Gyimah
Ghanaian journalist, covering African affairs for the past 10 years.