A Heartbreaking Farewell: The Widow’s Story
The widow of Dr. Samuel Sarpong has shared a deeply emotional account of her husband's final moments before the tragic helicopter crash that claimed his life. In an interview, she opened up about the last conversation she had with him on the day of the incident, revealing the heart-wrenching details that have left many in shock and sorrow.
Dr. Sarpong, a former Ashanti Regional Minister, was among eight people who lost their lives in the accident. His wife, Mrs. Ekyaa Sarpong, spoke from her home in Kumasi during an interview with UTV. She described how she was overwhelmed with grief as she recounted the events leading up to the crash. She mentioned that on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Dr. Sarpong called her from Accra to inform her that he and others would be attending an event in Obuasi but would return home on Friday, August 8, 2025.
Dressed in traditional mourning attire, she shared how she bid him a safe journey, unaware that this would be their final communication. At noon that day, she received the devastating news that her husband had perished in the helicopter crash. “I heard about the news at 12 noon. He was in Accra, and I was in Kumasi. He called that morning to let me know that he would be traveling to Obuasi and that he would be home on Friday. He was calling to inform me of his travel. I wished him a safe trip, and that was it. I did not hear from him again and was told that my husband had died. That was it.”
Mrs. Sarpong also highlighted that she and her husband had been married for 38 years and both came from Juaben in the Ashanti Region. Their bond was strong, and the loss has left an indelible mark on her life.
Details of the Tragic Helicopter Crash
The crash occurred at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region. Among the victims were several high-profile individuals, including the Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Deputy National Security Coordinator Limuna Muniru; Former Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East, Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
In response to the tragedy, the President declared three days of national mourning for the victims, beginning on Thursday, August 7, 2025. The impact of the incident has been felt across Ghana, with many expressing their condolences and support for the families affected.
Social Media Reactions and Public Outcry
The video of Mrs. Sarpong’s interview has resonated with many Ghanaians, garnering over 3,000 likes and 200 comments. Social media users have taken to the comment section to express their sympathy for the family of Dr. Sarpong.
One user, @ActivistJerry, wrote: “My deepest condolences to all the families. Our hearts are truly heavy. The grief is deep, the ache unrelenting. Yet I pray for strength, for grace, and for the God of all comfort to surround us with His peace. May their memory live on and find eternal rest.”
Others have criticized the media for their intrusive behavior. @Harr__son remarked: “Someone is grieving, una go carry camera go interview her? Eii Ghana.” Similarly, @Onas_foods commented: “DeÉ›n na mopÉ› sÉ› okunafo no nka? You media people, why? Sampson K Nyamekye, why? She’s mourning her husband. Ah Charlie.” Another user, @kwekuaboagye5, stated: “Can't you guys be a bit professional and take the cameras off their faces?”
Eyewitness Account of the Crash
Earlier reports indicated that an eyewitness provided a detailed account of what he saw moments before the crash. According to the witness, the helicopter was flying very low in foggy weather. He and others rushed to the crash site, where they witnessed the aftermath of the tragedy. This account adds to the growing concern about the circumstances surrounding the crash and highlights the need for further investigation into the cause of the incident.
The loss of Dr. Sarpong and the other victims has left a profound impact on the nation, prompting calls for reflection, unity, and support for those affected by the tragedy. As the country mourns, the story of Mrs. Sarpong serves as a reminder of the human cost of such incidents and the importance of compassion and understanding in times of grief.