When Omane Boamah Criticised GFA Before His Tragic Death in Helicopter Crash
- Ghana’s Defence Minister and another cabinet member have died in a tragic military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region
- The aircraft was en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining event when it vanished from radar
- Among the victims was vocal critic of the Ghana Football Association, Dr Edward Omane Boamah who had called for urgent reforms
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah was a vocal critic of the Ghana Football Association, firmly stating that meaningful reform was needed for the sport to advance.
Known for his deep passion for football, the Defence Minister never hesitated to share his views on issues affecting the game.
Source: Twitter
His sudden death in a tragic military helicopter crash has left the nation in grief.
Ghana Helicopter Crash Tragedy
The devastating crash occurred in Ghana's Ashanti Region and has been officially confirmed by government authorities.
Dr. Boamah died alongside the Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, aged 50.
The military aircraft, which was carrying three crew members and five passengers, vanished from the radar shortly after it took off from Accra.
It was headed for Obuasi, where the ministers were scheduled to attend an event focused on curbing illegal mining.
Photos of the wreckage shared online show the burned remains of the helicopter, though officials have yet to confirm the cause of the crash.
According to the BBC, the Ghanaian government has declared the incident a “national tragedy.” Chief of Staff Julius Debrah extended condolences on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, and flags across the country have been lowered to half-mast in tribute.
Omane Boamah slammed GFA
Before his untimely passing, Dr. Omane Boamah had been vocal about the state of Ghanaian football.
In January 2024, after Ghana’s shocking group-stage exit at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, he openly criticised the GFA.
The Black Stars were eliminated after conceding two stoppage-time penalties in a 2-2 draw against Mozambique, a result that denied them progression to the knockout rounds.
Boamah took to social media to express his frustration, stating:
“Until GFA is fixed, forget about Ghana football. Another hunt for a coach has begun.”
He strongly believed that structural issues within the GFA were at the heart of Ghana football’s decline and urged fans not to blame coaches alone.
Edward Omane Boamah's love for football
Omane Boamah, 53, was known for his political career and also for his deep love for Ghanaian football.
A dedicated public servant, he was also a man with a passion for football, a love that was evident in his final appearance at the stadium.
During this year's President's Cup match between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, he was one of the top government officials who attended the game at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Source: Facebook
Ghanaian journalist Muftawu Nabila says he is devastated by the death of Omane Boamah, describing him as a passionate follower of the game.
According to Muftawu, Omane’s love for sports went beyond just watching - he had ideas for reforms that could reshape Ghana’s entire sporting landscape.
“I’m truly heartbroken by Omane’s passing,” Muftawu told YEN.com.gh.
“He wasn’t just a fan who watched games for entertainment; he genuinely cared about the future of sports in Ghana. He was always thinking about how we could make things better, how we could bring reforms that would benefit not only football but the entire sporting fraternity.”
“Omane’s passion was infectious. Every conversation with him left you inspired to dream bigger for Ghana sports. Losing him is not just a personal loss for me, but a huge loss for everyone who believes in the growth and progress of our game.”
Omane Boamah's support for Ghanaian football clubs and national teams was well known, and he often attended games and events to encourage young athletes and promote the sport.
His infectious energy, whether in the political arena or the sports world, earned him the admiration of many Ghanaians.
According to the Information Services Department, along with Dr. Omane Boamah and Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, other prominent figures who lost their lives include Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, former Agriculture Minister, and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress party.
Football community mourns: GFA extends condolences
The Ghana Football Association shared its deep sorrow over the tragic loss, offering heartfelt sympathy to the families and the nation at large.
The late Dr. Omane Boamah, remembered not only for his political leadership but also for his passionate advocacy in football, was highlighted as a key figure who constantly pushed for structural reforms to uplift the sport.
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His absence has created a void felt deeply by administrators, fans, and players alike.
Beyond words, the GFA also announced plans to honour the fallen minister by observing a moment of silence at upcoming domestic league matches.
Club officials from Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, where Dr. Boamah was often seen cheering, also pledged to hold tribute matches in his memory.
John Mahama reacts to helicopter disaster
YEN.com.gh earlier reported that President John Mahama is heartbroken by the painful demise of the eight persons in the fatal helicopter crash.
This is according to a member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, who is also Minister for Education. The esteemed politician also extended his condolences, offering heartfelt wishes for peace during this difficult time.
Source: YEN.com.gh
