Imam Sulemana Iddrisu Bamba, the First Deputy Chief Imam for Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai in the Western North Region, has stated that the eight government officials who perished in the recent helicopter crash died a natural death as ordained by Allah. He made the remarks in an interview with the press, urging the public to accept the tragedy with faith and refrain from politicising or trivialising the incident.
According to the Islamic scholar, the deaths of the officials should be treated with the utmost respect and solemnity, not turned into grounds for political blame or speculation. “These men were not just soldiers; they were national heroes who died in active service. Politicising their deaths is disrespectful and uncalled for,” he stated.
Imam Bamba further called on the public to sympathise with the bereaved families and offer them prayers and support during this difficult period. He stressed that the pain of losing loved ones should not be compounded by divisive commentary and unfounded allegations. He added that sending their burnt pictures all over social media won’t help the grieving families but rather worsen their pain. “Let us mourn with them in love and unity, not in blame and hostility,” he said.
Responding to public concerns over the transportation of the remains for DNA testing and autopsy, the cleric clarified that such procedures are not against Islamic teachings, especially when they become necessary. “Islam permits medical examinations in relevant situations, particularly when they help ascertain identity or cause of death,” he explained.
He also urged authorities to intensify efforts in tackling illegal mining and related activities, which he said could pose risks to national operations, including aviation. He recommended that safer and better-coordinated flight paths be explored for military and essential missions to prevent future incidents.
Addressing rumours and conspiracy theories surrounding the crash, Imam Bamba stressed that the fallen officials died a natural death as ordained by Allah. He advised the public to avoid superstition and reckless speculation. “Their deaths were not accidental in the eyes of God. They died as written in Allah’s plan. Let us not stir confusion through baseless theories,” he stated.
The Islamic leader also appealed to political actors, the media, and commentators to be circumspect in their narratives. He emphasised that national tragedies should unite rather than divide the country and encouraged all citizens to uphold the dignity of the deceased and their families.
His remarks have since been welcomed by various religious groups and concerned citizens who believe the nation needs calm, unity, and healing in the aftermath of the crash. The state funeral scheduled for the fallen officers is expected to draw dignitaries and mourners from across the country, in what many hope will be a dignified and solemn tribute to their service.
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