The burial of Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna has been postponed as authorities await autopsy results and the conclusion of ongoing investigations into the tragic helicopter crash that claimed their lives. Religious leaders and government officials are coordinating to ensure funeral arrangements align with both Islamic customs and state protocols.
The two statesmen were among eight individuals who perished in a military helicopter crash at Adansi-Brofoyedu in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. The group was on an official assignment to Obuasi at the time of the accident.
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Those aboard the ill-fated flight included:
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Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
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Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology
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Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
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Dr. Samuel Sarpong, National Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
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Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate in the 2024 elections
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Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, pilot
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Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, co-pilot
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Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah, crew member
Despite Islamic tradition encouraging burial within 24 hours, Member of Parliament for Tamale North and Deputy Minister for Roads, Mr. Hassan Suhuyini, noted that exceptions can be made in extraordinary situations.
“Islam is a flexible religion,” he stated in an interview with Joy FM on Thursday, August 7, 2025. “Although burial within 24 hours is ideal, Islam allows for exceptions under compelling circumstances. What matters most is respect for the deceased and adherence to the spirit of the faith.”
Mr. Suhuyini also explained that depending on the Islamic denomination, funeral observances may take place on the 7th, 30th, or 40th day after death. He expressed confidence that religious leaders would provide the necessary spiritual guidance and comfort to families as they await full investigative clarity.
The Presidency has announced the formation of a task force to probe the circumstances surrounding the crash. Additionally, a national funeral planning committee has been set up to collaborate with the affected families on burial and memorial services.
Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Ms. Shamima Muslim, affirmed that discussions with the bereaved families are ongoing to ensure that both religious sensitivities and official procedures are duly respected.
In response to the tragedy, President John Dramani Mahama has suspended all official engagements for the remainder of the week. A three-day national mourning period has also been declared in honour of the victims.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem