WESTERN NORTH CHIEF IMAM CONSOLES BEREAVED FAMILIES OF HELICOPTER CRASH
The Western North Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Ahmed Adam, has extended his deepest condolences to the families of the eight individuals who perished in last Wednesday’s military helicopter crash. In an exclusive interview with the Daily Times newspaper, his Coordinator, Alhaji Abdul Rahman Halidu, conveyed the Chief Imam’s message on his behalf.
Alhaji Ahmed Adam described the incident as a devastating national tragedy that has affected not only the immediate families but the entire country. He urged the nation to come together in prayer, unity, and sober reflection, rather than politicizing the sad event.
“As Muslims, we believe death is determined by Allah. These were natural deaths, and there should be no back-and-forth, no superstitions, and no political blame games,” Mr. Musah said on behalf of the Chief Imam during the interview. “Let the nation mourn with dignity and support the families left behind.”
Quoting from both the Quran and the Bible, the Chief Imam stressed the importance of accepting God’s will in times of loss. He referenced Surah Al-Baqarah 2:156: “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we shall return,” and Ecclesiastes 3:1: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
He strongly condemned the widespread circulation of disturbing photos of the crash victims on social media, calling the act insensitive and morally wrong. “This only increases the pain of grieving families. We must learn to show mercy even in mourning,” he stated.
The Chief Imam commended President John Mahama and the Armed Forces for their prompt response in managing the aftermath of the tragedy, especially the decision to send the remains to South Africa for proper DNA identification. He said this reflects a sense of national responsibility and honour for the deceased.
Alhaji Ahmed Adam also called on religious and political leaders to rise above divisions and focus on comforting the affected families. “This is not the time for politics or finger-pointing. It is a time for prayer, unity, and healing,” Mr. Musah stressed in the interview.
He revealed that special prayers are being held across mosques in the Western North Region for the souls of the departed and for strength for the families. These intercessory sessions have brought together Muslims, Christians, and traditional leaders in a show of unity.
Several members of the bereaved families welcomed the Chief Imam’s message with gratitude. “This message has brought us peace. We thank him for standing with us,” one family spokesperson told the Daily Times after the publication of the interview.
A state funeral for the eight crash victims will take place on Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square in Accra, where national dignitaries, military personnel, and members of the public will gather to pay their final respects to the fallen heroes.
