Nigel Gaisie applauds Volta Chiefs for standing against galamsey

Prophet Nigel Gaisie, founder of Prophetic Hill Chapel, has commended chiefs in the Volta Region for their firm stance against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

He emphasized that the traditional authorities’ proactive measures have protected the region’s environment, despite its abundance of gold and other mineral resources.

In a statement shared on Facebook on Monday, October 6, 2025, Prophet Gaisie highlighted the critical role of local chiefs in regulating mining activities on their lands. He noted that chiefs have the authority to restrict operations near rivers and forest reserves, and their vigilance in the Volta Region has successfully prevented environmental damage caused by illicit mining.

The religious leader praised the traditional authorities for resisting attempts to legitimise unlawful mining on their territories. According to him, their actions have helped the region maintain one of the country’s few water sources that remain free from galamsey-related contamination. “This is not about politics. The responsibility to tackle illegal mining rests heavily on our local leaders, not only the central government,” he said.

Prophet Gaisie also stressed the importance of cultural observances in enforcing environmental protection. He explained that residents are more likely to respect bans on mining when chiefs issue directives backed by local customs. “I strongly believe no one would dare engage in galamsey if a chief declares a ban with the right intentions,” he said.

He added that the Volta Region stands out as the only area in Ghana where mineral deposits exist but galamsey has not taken root. “This success is due to the foresight and dedication of our traditional leaders, who have taken direct action to protect their communities. Future generations will benefit from their vision,” Prophet Gaisie noted.

Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has been charged with six counts linked to illegal mining activities.

The charges are connected to alleged unauthorized mining operations carried out by his company, Akonta Mining Limited, at Samreboi in the Western Region.

According to court documents, Wontumi was charged alongside his company and one Kwame Antwi, who is said to be on the run. The charges include the unlawful assignment of mineral rights without ministerial approval, corporate liability for unauthorized assignment, and facilitating unlicensed mining operations.

The case follows a joint state security operation on April 26, 2025, which led to the arrest of 29 persons allegedly engaged in mining on Akonta Mining’s concession. One of the suspects, identified as Michael Ayisi Gyedu, reportedly told investigators that he was authorized by one Henry Okum to supervise mining activities on the land.

Prosecutors said Okum later confessed during interrogation that he had obtained permission directly from Chairman Wontumi to mine within the Samreboi concession. Investigators allege that the NPP chairman gave the authorization without securing the required approval from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, as stipulated by Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act.