'Aboagye called me uncle and Dr Sarpong was our great mentor' - Kwabre East MCE

Joseph Amankwah Nurudeen, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Kwabre East Municipality, has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the eight individuals who perished in the recent helicopter crash at Sikaman Brofoyeduru in the Ashanti Region.

Visibly shaken by the tragedy, the MCE lamented the loss of the prominent figures whose contributions were vital to Ghana’s progress. In an interview, he explained that the country has lost some of its finest leaders and public servants.

He noted that only the Almighty can adequately replace those lost in the accident, emphasizing the significant impact of their absence. From the late Minister of Defence to the dedicated military personnel, the MCE described the tragedy as the loss of exemplary individuals.

Turning his attention to Samuel Aboagye, the Kwabre East MCE fondly recalled the close bond they shared.

“Aboagye used to call me uncle, and we were much closer than brothers,” he said. “During the 2024 election, while I was the NDC parliamentary candidate for Kwabre East, Aboagye was the Obuasi East parliamentary candidate. When we gathered, most of the candidates called me uncle, and Aboagye, such a brilliant young man, did as well. We were very close, and he was a very good man.”

He reminisced about how Samuel Aboagye, who first gained national prominence as the Deputy National NADMO Director, often encouraged him to remain hopeful.

“Aboagye would call and encourage me, ‘Uncle, never give up; I know your appointment is surely on the way.’ He was open and friendly with everyone, and I never saw him begrudge anyone. This is the kind of person we’ve lost,” he said with sadness.

Speaking about Dr. Samuel Sarpong, who also hailed from the Ashanti Region, the MCE revealed that the entire NDC party, particularly those in the region — had lost an irreplaceable pillar.

“Dr Samuel Sarpong… I don’t know if we can ever find someone to take his place,” he said.

“He was our everything. When all hopes were lost, he was the one who made the impossible possible. He was our counsellor, mentor, hope-giver, and peacemaker. Whenever there was a serious issue, whether internal or external, his intervention would calm nerves and restore peace. That is the kind of great gem the party has lost. He was also the National Vice Chairman of the party, and I believe we’re all aware of his contributions. The party has lost a truly great man.”

Despite the difficulty, he expressed hope that the party would eventually find someone with qualities similar to Dr Sarpong.

Joseph Amankwah, who attended the state funeral for the eight fallen heroes, reflected on the lasting impact of this national tragedy. He extended his condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the bereaved families, and the entire nation.