The Kontinhene of Asuom, Nana Boadi Ampomenim Abodade III, has called on President Akufo-Addo to take decisive action against illegal mining and implement reforms in the sector before his term ends.

Speaking in an interview with Channel One News, Nana Abodade III expressed deep frustration over the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, particularly in the Asuom community.

He highlighted the widespread disregard for regulations, accusing some individuals of misusing prospecting licenses and operating without contracts, leading to the unchecked devastation of local lands.

Nana Abodade III specifically mentioned AC Zenon, a company allegedly linked to Amina Tahiru and Lands and Natural Resources Minister Abu Jinapor, as refusing to comply with the community's demands to halt operations and reclaim destroyed areas.

The traditional leader emphasized that President Akufo-Addo has a crucial opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by tackling the issue of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

He reminded the President of his earlier promises to address the crisis, urging him to act swiftly and decisively within the next two months.

Nana Abodade III also suggested that the government convene a meeting with key stakeholders to reassess the mining sector and develop sustainable solutions that protect the environment and ensure responsible practices.

He reiterated that immediate reforms are necessary to prevent further harm to communities like Asuom, and urged the President to prioritise this issue as part of his administration’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana's natural resources.

“People that have prospecting license are using it, people that do not have contracts for concessions are just using the paper and by care destroying wherever they go."

“It’s a huge battle for this country because AC Zenon which is Amina Tahiru’s company and I’m not scared to mention that it is alleged that she is a brother of Abu Jinapor, so therefore she can just go, and a concession will sign for her.”

“As we speak today, the youth of Asuom have told all of them to stop work, go back, reclaim all the destruction you have caused and most of them obliged. Madam Amina Tahiru is saying she’ll not oblige. As a matter of fact, she has military men today at her site, protecting it while they mine.”

“Mr President [Akufo-Addo], you’re our uncle and a brother, we barely have about months to go but I believe you can change things around, you can do it.

"You pledged your presidency on the line for galamsey. Your legacy will be measured for that pledge and posterity will not forgive you if you do not do something about it now, we are pleading with you.”

“Within two months you can cause a change because when it was banned, within a few weeks we realised that we were having some positive results, ban it. Get people together. let’s go back to the drawing board and do things right," he urged the President.