Chief of Essikado has urged the Lands Minster, Samuel Abu Jinapor not to relent on his mandate to eradicate illegal small scale mining.

Nana Kobina Nketsia V, speaking on the dire effect of illegal mining, locally known as 'galamsey', indicated that if pragmatic steps are not put in place to stop illegal mining, the fight against the menace will not succeed.

"The major issue affecting the country that has rendered most of us restless is the hyperpolarization of the country. If you can't do this, to be honest, Ghana's initiatives will be futile."

Nana Kobina Nketsia V said this during a courtesy call paid by the Minister during his ongoing three-day tour to the Western Region as parts of measures to tackle the phenomenon.

The Chief of Esikado further encouraged Mr Jinapor to detach himself from political influence and ensure to rid the country of illegal mining.

This he says could earn him the presidency of Ghana should the fight against illegal mining become a success.

"When it comes to Ghana, every obstacle must be removed - party or otherwise. The fight against 'galamsey', if you look after our forests, maybe that would even make you the next President. It is not beyond you but it all depends on the initiatives you will undertake."

Nana Kobina Nketsia V pledged his support to the Minister if he considers vying for the presidency in the future.

"If you execute your duties as expected and need be that I follow you, I will," he told Mr Jinapor.

Meanwhile, the Damongo MP is expected to interact with the mining city of Tarkwa before proceeding to inspect a Mineral Development Fund (MDF) Infrastructural Projects at the University of Mines and Technology on Tuesday.

He will also visit the AngloGold (Iduapriem Mines) and end his day with a meeting with the Small Scale Mining Association.