The Concerned Citizens of the Bono Region have condemned remarks made by the Ahafo Regional Youth Organizer, Sulemana Masahudu, describing the Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Eric Adjei, as an “enemy of Ahafo.”

The group described the statement as “unfortunate, unwarranted, and inconsistent with the values of mutual respect and regional harmony” that both Bono and Ahafo share.

In a statement signed by the Deputy Youth Organiser of the Bono Region, Mustapha Omar Copson, the group expressed disappointment over the comments, which they said arose after Mr. Adjei shared his opinion on the recent confrontation between the NAIMOS taskforce and some youth during an operation against illegal mining near Bronikrom–Hwediem.

“While we acknowledge the right of every citizen to hold and express opinions, we find this declaration unfortunate,” the statement read.

“The fight against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, is not a personal or partisan battle but a national responsibility that demands the support of all.”

Mr. Copson stated that respected leaders from both Bono and Ahafo, including Alhaji Collins Dauda of Asutifi South, Dr. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo of Asutifi North, and Mr. Eric Adjei, have all played vital roles in promoting environmental protection and sustainable development.

“To label one of them an enemy simply for echoing a national concern is, to say the least, misguided,” he added.

The group questioned the motive and implications of such inflammatory remarks, warning that they could sow unnecessary division between the two sister regions.

“If Ahafo declares Mr. Eric Adjei an enemy, should Bono also declare Mr. Masahudu an enemy for attacking one of its own? In that unfortunate cycle, are we helping the government in the fight against galamsey, or simply creating needless chaos where unity is most needed?” the statement queried.

Highlighting Mr. Adjei’s achievements, the Bono citizens praised his leadership at NEIP, noting that his initiatives, including the Adwumawura Programme, have empowered thousands of young Ghanaians, including many from Ahafo.

“It is deeply unfair and counterproductive to malign a leader whose work directly contributes to national progress and regional growth,” the statement stressed.

The group further dismissed any claims that Mr. Adjei harbours ill will toward the Ahafo Region, describing him as a “visionary leader and a true advocate for progress, peace, and prosperity.”

Mr. Copson revealed that he personally reached out to Mr. Masahudu in the spirit of reconciliation, urging him to choose peace and maturity over confrontation.

“Our collective progress depends not on who shouts the loudest but on who chooses peace when tempers rise,” he noted.

The Bono Citizens called on all parties to exercise restraint and focus on unity and development, urging political and youth leaders to avoid divisive rhetoric.

“At this critical moment, let us remember that truth is not hostility and sincerity is not betrayal,” the statement concluded. “Mr. Eric Adjei remains a proud son of Ghana whose work continues to benefit both Bono and Ahafo Regions.”