Legal Practitioner Richard Kojo Abban has voiced serious concerns about the devastating effects of illegal mining, accusing the government of gross negligence and failing to address the underdevelopment in regions rich in natural resources.
In an interview with Afia Pokua, popularly known as Vim Lady, Mr.
Abban argued, "Over 10 percent of the revenue generated from resource extraction should be allocated for the development of the areas affected." He condemned the Minerals Commission for not living up to its core responsibilities, stating, "The unrest surrounding illegal mining and other resource-related issues is because the Mineral Commission has failed to do its job." Mr.
Abban also lamented the consequences of illegal mining, pointing out that communities whose lands have been destroyed can no longer use them productively. "Lands that could have been used to cultivate cash crops and other agricultural products are now wasted," he said.