Chiefs of the Asante Akyem Traditional Council on Tuesday presented a petition to President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to intervene in the revocation of the mining lease of Northern Ashanti Mines Limited Company (NAMLC) and the subsequent takeover of the site by the National Anti‑Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The petition was submitted through Municipal Chief Executive Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo at the Asante Akim Central Municipal Assembly.
Chiefs, who view themselves as custodians of the lands and communities within their jurisdiction, expressed concern that the revocation and takeover could jeopardise employment, livelihoods and local businesses that depend on the mine’s operations. They highlighted that NAMLC had invested more than US$200 million in Ghana’s mining sector, built a processing plant and carried out social investment initiatives such as road rehabilitation and support for community celebrations.
Chief Nana Kofi Gyeabour, Chief of Obenimase, noted that over 40 % of NAMLC’s employees came from host communities, providing essential household income and supporting education and welfare. He warned that the suspension of operations would affect transport operators, traders, food vendors, contractors and suppliers linked to the mine.
The council also raised alarm over an incident on 22 October 2026 when NAIMOS personnel, accompanied by a Minerals Commission representative, entered the company’s operational site and, at gunpoint, ordered employees to vacate offices and residential accommodation within two hours. Chiefs said the disruption could place financial pressure on households and deprive young people of employment opportunities.
In the petition, the chiefs called for a review of the circumstances surrounding the lease revocation, the withdrawal of NAIMOS personnel from the site, and constructive engagement among the government, the Minerals Commission, NAMLC and traditional authorities. They affirmed their commitment to working with the government to promote responsible mining, peaceful coexistence and sustainable community development.
Rev. Dr. Aidoo, receiving the petition on behalf of the President, said the Assembly would forward it to the Presidency and expressed hope that President Mahama would give the chiefs’ concerns due consideration. He assured the council that any feedback from the Presidency would be communicated back to them.
