We still look for his voice': Son remembers Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna a year on

For one year, the family of late Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna has had to adjust to a life without the man they described as a father, mentor and source of guidance.

At a national memorial service in Accra marking the first anniversary of Ghana's military helicopter crash, his son paid an emotional tribute, saying the pain of losing him remained, but his values continued to shape the family.

"One year ago, we stood before the nation in disbelief, struggling to find a way to say goodbye to our beloved son and father," he said.

He said the past year had been a difficult journey as the family learned to live with the absence of a man whose presence had been central to their lives.

"Today, those words carry an even deeper meaning because for an entire year, we have had to learn what life looks like without him. The past year has changed us in ways we never imagined."

Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna was among eight people killed when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crashed in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region on 6 August 2025 while travelling on official duty.

The crash killed Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Alhaji Limuna, National Democratic Congress Vice-Chairman Samuel Sarpong, Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organisation Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The tragedy triggered national mourning, with state funerals held for the victims and tributes paid across Ghana.

Speaking at the anniversary memorial, Alhaji Limuna's son said the family continued to miss the everyday moments they shared with him.

"There have been many moments when we wished we could hear his voice again, seek his advice on important decisions or simply spend time with him," he said.

He described his father as a man whose leadership was defined not by his position but by his service to others.

"His life taught us that leadership is not measured by position but by service to others. He taught us that true strength is found in kindness, that leadership begins with listening, and that integrity is life's greatest treasure."

Beyond the family's personal loss, he said they had found comfort in hearing stories from people across Ghana about his kindness, generosity and willingness to help others.

"Through the way he lived, he gave us a family that extends far beyond our own," he said.

He said his father's death was not only a loss to the family but also to the country he served.

"Although we lost a beloved member of our family, Ghana also lost a remarkable servant whose contributions and character will continue to be remembered."

He expressed gratitude to the government, President John Mahama, relatives, friends and members of the public for their support during the family's grieving process.

"Your prayers, your kindness and your unwavering support have carried us through our darkest days," he said.

The memorial service, held under the theme "Lives of Service, Legacies of Sacrifice," brought together government officials, religious leaders, military personnel and relatives of the victims to remember the eight people who died.

For the families left behind, the anniversary was not only a reminder of the tragedy but also an opportunity to reflect on the lives and values of those they lost.

"Daddy, until we meet again, may you continue to rest in perfect peace," Alhaji Limuna's son said.