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Lydia Forson Slams Ghanaian Media Over Graphic Coverage of GAF Helicopter Crash

Kwabena Ansah
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Lydia Forson Slams Ghanaian Media Over Graphic Coverage of GAF Helicopter Crash

Ghanaian actress and activist, Lydia Forson, has criticised sections of the local media for what she described as “insensitive” and “exploitative” coverage of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter crash that claimed eight lives on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The military Z-9 helicopter, which took off from Accra at 9:12 a.m., crashed near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region.

Among the victims were Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Member of Parliament Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and six others.

In the hours following the tragedy, disturbing images and videos of the wreckage — including charred human remains — circulated widely on social media and news platforms.

This has prompted widespread debate about the ethics of such reporting.

Lydia Forson took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice her disapproval, writing:

“I genuinely despise the gory spectacle we make out of death. The rush to post graphic images, shove cameras in grieving faces, and ‘break’ the news as if it’s some twisted competition for clicks; it’s disgusting.”

Her remarks have resonated with many Ghanaians who believe that the privacy and dignity of victims and their families should be prioritised over the race for online engagement.

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Still, the conversation surrounding media ethics in times of tragedy is once again in the national spotlight.

Stonebwoy Mourns Victims Lost In Helicopter Crash, Calls For Action To Prevent Future Tragedies

J.K Oppong
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Stonebwoy Mourns Victims Lost In Helicopter Crash, Calls For Action To Prevent Future Tragedies

Popular Ghanaian artiste, Stonebwoy, has voiced deep sorrow over the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region that claimed eight lives, including two senior government ministers and members of the military.

The Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9EH went down with no survivors, taking the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. The tragedy reverberated across the nation, sparking an outpouring of condolences from Ghanaians and international well-wishers.

In an emotional August 7 interview with TV3, Stonebwoy described the loss as a blow to the country, revealing that both late ministers held a special place in his life.

“Honourable Murtala Mohammed was a big supporter of BHIM Nation, a father figure. The former Ashanti Regional Minister was also like family to me. It’s difficult to comprehend; waking up to the news was crazy,” he said.

The timing of the tragedy, he explained, struck an even deeper chord, as August marks a decade since his mother’s passing.

“This is the tenth year of the month my mother passed away, so I was already in a certain mood. And then all these were added on. It’s not easy,” he shared.

READ ALSO: Dzifa Gomashie Says Tragedy Will Not Stop Their Service to Ghana

Stonebwoy also fondly remembered his bond with Dr Murtala Mohammed, recalling a public show of support that left a lasting impression.

“My relationship with Alhaji Dr Murtala was like that of a father and son. We spoke on the phone many times. What actually heightened it was when he was in an interview and expressed his love and support for my brand.

“He showed that from his level as a politician, he could still appreciate reggae and dancehall while serving the nation,” he noted.

The Burniton Music boss further called for decisive government action to reduce the risk of such tragedies.

“This isn’t just a family loss; Ghana has been hit. The state must employ measures to avoid such disasters,” he concluded.

Dzifa Gomashie Says Tragedy Will Not Stop Their Service to Ghana

J.K Oppong
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Dzifa Gomashie Says Tragedy Will Not Stop Their Service to Ghana

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, says the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians will not deter her or other public servants from giving their all to the nation.

Speaking with UTV during the official period of mourning, an emotional Gomashie reflected on the loss of colleagues and military officers who died while on national duty.

“My father has passed away, and he will be buried on Saturday. We had been prepared for his passing since he was old, but this particular loss (the helicopter crash) has been especially painful. You dedicated yourself to serving the nation, and while on an important mission, you tragically lost your life.

“This is incredibly difficult for us. However, we must not let this deter us from continuing our work,” she said, holding back tears.

READ ALSO: Rex Omar Endorses Full Probe Into Helicopter Crash That Killed Two Ministers And Six Others

The tragedy occurred on August 6, 2025, when a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter, carrying three crew members and five prominent government figures, crashed into a forested area near Adansi Sikaman in the Ashanti Region.

The aircraft had departed Accra at 9:12 a.m., bound for Obuasi, but went down mid-journey and caught fire, killing everyone on board.

Those who perished in the crash included Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, former Ashanti Regional Minister Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Flying Officer Twum-Ampadu, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Watch her sad remarks below.

Socrate Safo Blames Generational Rift And Ignorance For Ghana’s Film Industry Decline

J.K Oppong
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Socrate Safo Blames Generational Rift And Ignorance For Ghana’s Film Industry Decline

Veteran Ghanaian filmmaker, Socrate Safo, has said the country’s movie industry is collapsing because of deep-seated ignorance and a long-standing feud between older and younger generations of filmmakers.

In an interview on Hitz FM, the former Director for Creative Arts at the National Commission on Culture compared filmmaking to driving, a craft that demands not only the tools but also an understanding of the rules.

According to Safo, too many newcomers rush into the industry without mastering the basics.

“People want to become filmmakers, but they do not know anything about filmmaking. They just want to get a camera and organise a few friends, and that is all,” he said.

Reflecting on his early years, Safo recalled entering the industry at a time when video technology was emerging, only to be dismissed by senior colleagues who worked exclusively with celluloid.

READ ALSO: Socrate Safo Critiques YouTube Dependency, Urges Film Industry To Build Stronger Distribution Network

“The system today inherited the ignorance of yesterday. When I got into the system, I did not get a warm reception from those who were there before. They were using celluloid cameras.

“So when they saw me using a video camera, they saw me as a joke. I couldn’t even get the opportunity to show my films in the cinemas because the older people were trying to protect their interests,” he recounted.

The lack of acceptance, he said, sparked open conflict.

“We, the new filmmakers, also revolted. Instead of giving them the necessary respect, we were fighting them. And instead of them giving us the necessary guidance, they were restricting us,” he admitted.

Now, he believes history is repeating itself.

“The same thing today; the young ones have also inherited the ignorance that made us… In a way, we rebelled against them, and they are rebelling against us. There’s no synergy,” he said.

Safo asserted that this cycle of mistrust has only accelerated the industry’s decline. “Now we are all being stupid.”

Government Should Avoid Building Museums for Celebrities – Okraku-Mantey

J.K Oppong
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Government Should Avoid Building Museums for Celebrities – Okraku-Mantey

Former Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Mark Okraku-Mantey has urged the government to avoid directly funding museums dedicated to late celebrities, warning that such moves could stir unnecessary disputes and harm public perception.

In an interview on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz with Kwame Dadzie, he stressed that while safeguarding the heritage of Ghanaian creatives is vital, state-led projects honouring specific individuals risk accusations of bias.

“Government should not even show interest in any museum of any celebrity. Yes, let me tell you why. I’ve been there, done that. Knowing my people, they will come and say ‘they did it for Lumba but they didn’t do it for Dada KD’. A government can become unpopular out of this. By just taking a step to do it for one person and not doing for the other person, it can bring problems. So government can create the enabling environment like the land we offered,” he explained.

READ ALSO: Kumasi Candlelight Vigil For Daddy Lumba Postponed Indefinitely Following National Tragedy

Okraku-Mantey argued that the state should limit its role to creating opportunities, such as providing land, while leaving construction, funding, and maintenance to the private sector and local communities. He cited the Kwahu traditional authorities’ ongoing plans to build a museum for the late “King of Highlife” Nana Kwame Ampadu in his hometown as an example of community-led preservation.

“So for government to be safe, not to worry you for your votes, just play safe, create the enabling environment so that the private sector people come on board. They are the ones who can maintain these infrastructure. The government infrastructure itself is struggling,” he stated.

Watch his statement below.

Rex Omar Endorses Full Probe Into Helicopter Crash That Killed Two Ministers And Six Others

J.K Oppong
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Rex Omar Endorses Full Probe Into Helicopter Crash That Killed Two Ministers And Six Others

Highlife artiste and presidential staffer Rex Omar has joined growing calls for a thorough probe into the helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, among them two Cabinet Ministers, in Ghana’s Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6.

At a solemn ceremony of flower-laying and candle-lighting held at the Ceremonial Garden outside Jubilee House on Thursday, August 7, Omar shared his grief and personal connection to the tragedy.

“They were close allies and for Dr Omane Boamah, we spoke three days ago and even scheduled a meeting for today but this is the outcome today.

“We should all be strong and continue the good work he started. This is a very very painful incident and that is why I endorse full investigations into it. This has never happened to Ghana so I support the call,” he reportedly said.

READ ALSO: Ghanaian Celebrities Mourn Omane Boamah, Murtala Mohammed, And Others Lost In Military Helicopter Crash

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim confirmed in an interview with Joy FM that the government has established a task force to determine the cause of the crash, which killed two senior officials and six others. Omar stressed that uncovering the truth was essential to prevent such disasters in the future.

The government has also declared three days of national mourning, from Thursday, August 7, to Saturday, August 9, beginning with Thursday’s tribute at Jubilee House. According to the Presidency’s Communications Directorate, the period will serve as “a time for national reflection and unity,” honouring the victims while offering support to their families.

Those lost in the accident include Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah; MP for Tamale Central, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed; NDC National Vice-Chairman Samuel Sarpong; 2024 NDC Parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East, Samuel Aboagye; pilot Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; co-pilot Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and crew member Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah.

Kumasi Candlelight Vigil For Daddy Lumba Postponed Indefinitely Following National Tragedy

Chris Osei
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Kumasi Candlelight Vigil For Daddy Lumba Postponed Indefinitely Following National Tragedy

The Creative Arts Agency has officially announced the indefinite postponement of the much-anticipated candlelight vigil in Kumasi in honour of the late legendary Highlife musician, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.

The event which was originally scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Heroes Park in the Ashanti Regional capital, was meant to be the second major tribute following a successful one in Accra.

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Selina Boateng Rejects BBL Trend, Says ‘It’s Against The Will of God’

J.K Oppong
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Selina Boateng Rejects BBL Trend, Says ‘It’s Against The Will of God’

Ghanaian Gospel singer, Selina Boateng, has spoken against the rising popularity of cosmetic surgery among celebrities.

In a recent interview on Bryt TV, the ‘Medofo Pa’ singer responded to critics who’ve suggested she alter her appearance due to her body size. Rather than entertain those ideas, Selina said her focus is on health and exercise, not surgery.

“BBL is against the will of God. I don’t know which part of the Bible said that Sarah had any body enhancement. And if we are going by the Bible, I don’t see anywhere that tells me to go have body altercations,” she stated.

Selina explained that, as a devout Christian, she draws her values from scripture and sees no biblical precedent for altering one’s body for aesthetic purposes.

READ ALSO: I Wish I Never Took That Photo With My Son – Akuapem Poloo Expresses Regret

“Where in the Bible does it say Sarah or any woman of God changed their body?” she questioned, reiterating her stance against body modifications.

Her remarks come amid an ongoing conversation about cosmetic enhancements among Ghanaian celebrities. BBL procedures, in particular, have stirred both admiration and controversy across the entertainment scene.

Singer Wendy Shay also weighed in on the topic recently, making it clear that although she doesn’t judge others for undergoing such procedures, it’s not something she would do.

“It’s no offense to people who have BBL. If you want to have BBL, that’s your choice. But personally, I would have used that money to donate to people,” Wendy Shay stated.

Watch Selina Boateng’s remarks below.

Shatta Wale slams EOCO boss once again

Kwabena Ansah
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Shatta Wale slams EOCO boss once again

Shatta Wale has slammed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) boss, Raymond Archer once again for summoning him with the country being in a state of mourning.

In an angry Facebook post, Shatta Wale called out Mr Raymond Archer for inviting him for questioning regarding his seized yellow 2019 Lamborghini.

According to a statement signed by the security agency, the luxury car was seized due to a directive by the FBI, on the basis that it was allegedly tied to the criminal enterprise of Ghanaian business mogul Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is serving a seven-year jail term in the US for fraud.

In the now viral post, Shatta Wale questioned Raymond Archer on why he would reach out to his management to inform them about an interrogation at the EOCO office.

He noted that the timing of the summoning was wrong because the country was mourning the loss of the eight persons in the ghastly Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash earlier that day.

“As our Honourable Leaders crash and we are mourning for the country, Raymond you still have that strong heart to let your boy Agyenim call my team to tell me you are inviting me where,” he wrote on Facebook.

Appietus Celebrates His Wife As They Mark 25 Years Of Marriage

Chris Osei
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Appietus Celebrates His Wife As They Mark 25 Years Of Marriage

Ghanaian music legend Appiah Dankwah, better known as Appietus, is celebrating 25 years of marriage to his wife Freda Appiah Dankwah.

The celebrated sound engineer and producer took to social media to share loving anniversary wishes by stating “About to step out for dinner … Appiah x Freda ❤️❤️❤️.” 🎉

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