Atuabo: The Eastern Nzema Traditional Council has commended President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for revoking the mining leases of Adamus Resources Limited in the Ellembelle District.
According to Ghana News Agency, the revocation of the mining leases at Akango, Salman, and Nkroful was announced by the Minerals Commission, citing multiple breaches of the Minerals and Mining laws. These breaches included illegal subcontracting without ministerial approval and the use of foreign nationals, including Chinese operatives, for galamsey activities on the concession.
During a news conference in Atuabo, Awulae Blay IX, Paramount Chief of the Eastern Nzema Traditional Area, stated that the Council welcomed the Ministry's decision. Chiefs and Queen Mothers attended the conference clad in black cloth and red bands, symbolizing years of suffering under the company's operations. Awulae Blay IX highlighted that illegal and environmentally destructive mining on Adamus concessions had long harmed local communities. He also noted the company's failure to deliver tangible development projects, provide scholarships to indigenes, or employ locals from its catchment area.
Awulae Blay IX expressed gratitude to President Mahama for fulfilling his promise to protect water bodies and end impunity surrounding galamsey activities. He praised the administration's enforcement, stating that it demonstrates respect for the rule of law after years of weak environmental regulation. The Paramount Chief also urged chiefs of affected communities to prevent illegal miners from accessing the concessions until a legal and responsible operator is appointed.
Moreover, he appealed to the Ministry to introduce Responsible Cooperative Mining to help safeguard the environment and cautioned the youth against engaging in illegal mining activities. He emphasized that the government's revocation of the large-scale license was intended to stop destruction, not to create opportunities for further harm. The Council concluded by offering prayers for the President and the Minister, asking for protection against individuals who may seek to sabotage efforts to restore environmental integrity in the Western Region.