The Eastern Nzema Traditional Council (Ellembele Maanle) has endorsed the government’s decision to revoke the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited, describing the move as a major relief for affected communities.
At a press briefing, Paramount Chief of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area, HRM Awulae Blay IX, said the decision ends years of environmental destruction caused by mining activities on their lands.
Government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, on April 26, 2026, revoked the company’s leases covering the Akango, Salman and Nkroful concessions following findings of illegal mining operations.
According to the Paramount Chief, the situation had long been a burden on communities.
“We are not opposed to development. We are opposed to destruction. We have witnessed a systematic erosion of environmental regulations over a long period of time, and we had less power to fight this mining company on our own. But we are grateful to the current leadership. President John Dramani Mahama has never wavered in his commitment to protect the environment and the ordinary Ghanaian,” he said.
He added that findings by the Minerals Commission justified the government’s action.
“The findings of the Minerals Commission revealed a cartel of destruction. Adamus Resources Limited was found guilty of multiple breaches: it unlawfully subcontracted its operations without ministerial approval; allowed foreign nationals, including Chinese operatives, to engage in illegal mining (galamsey) on our lands; operated without approved mining plans and valid environmental permits from the EPA; and caused significant land degradation and threatened our water bodies.”
The Council also urged government not to reinstate the licence and to pursue criminal prosecution against those responsible.
“Do not reinstate this licence. Do not negotiate with those who poisoned our waters. Furthermore, the Ministry has indicated that this revocation does not preclude criminal prosecution. I urge the Attorney-General to take up this matter. Those directors and management who facilitated this illegality must face the full rigours of Act 995,” he stated.
He further cautioned local youth against engaging in illegal mining following the revocation.
“Do not go back to the pits. Don’t attempt to fill the vacuum left by Adamus with your own galamsey activities. The government has revoked the large-scale licence to stop destruction, not to give you a turn to destroy.”
The chief also indicated the Council’s readiness to support regulated alternatives.
“We will engage with the Ministry to bring in responsible Community Mining Schemes (CMS) that are regulated and protect the environment. Let us protect the land so that the land will protect us,” he added.
To underscore their stance, the chiefs performed traditional rites, including the sacrifice of a sheep.
They also called for sustained security presence at the concession sites and urged the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a full assessment of environmental damage and ensure the company funds restoration efforts.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
