Accusations of illegal mining activities continue to shake Ghana’s political landscape as fresh revelations link a top opposition figure to extensive galamsey operations.
The Third Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Yakubu Abanga Alhassan, has been accused of actively participating in illegal mining operations, popularly known as “galamsey”, across multiple forest reserves in Ghana, even though he vehemently denied the accusations.
Sources in a recent interview have detailed Abanga’s alleged involvement, citing his operation of eight mining concessions with the support of known galamsey kingpins and a coordinator identified as Kwame Atto. The sources claim that over 130 excavators are currently active on these sites.
“It is very true that Abanga is into galamsey. They invaded forests and brought excavators onto the concessions. Abanga was already in the forest operating,” one source revealed.
According to the accounts, Abanga allegedly collaborated with two traditional chiefs who received commissions from the illegal activities.
Tensions reportedly escalated when the chiefs, concerned about losing their stake, falsely accused rival operatives of violent attacks—claims that were considered unfounded.
According to sources, Abanga and his gang levelled unfounded allegations against some small scale miners, claiming they have been involved in killings and attacks.
This led to the National Security storming the forest to arrest the supposed individuals during which vehicles were seized, and a Toyota Tundra pick-up was set ablaze.
The unfolding scandal surrounding NDC’s Yakubu Abanga Alhassan comes at a time when the country is intensifying its war against illegal mining, a menace that has long plagued Ghana’s environment and endangered the livelihoods of thousands in mining-affected communities.
Security operatives close to the investigations have confirmed that EOCO, in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service and National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), has already begun preliminary work, including surveillance, asset tracing, and the collection of testimonies from affected communities and operatives on the ground.
Sources indicate that some of the seized excavators and heavy-duty machinery have been linked to companies allegedly registered under proxies affiliated with Abanga. Investigators are now working to establish the financial flows, land leases, and partnerships associated with these companies.
Political Fallout Looms
The controversy is already stoking political tensions, with government spokespersons calling for immediate accountability and urging the NDC to suspend all individuals implicated in the galamsey operations.
Meanwhile, NDC insiders appear divided. While some party loyalists have dismissed the accusations as a “state-sponsored witch hunt,” others within the party’s grassroots base have begun demanding internal reviews and disciplinary action.
“We cannot claim to stand for justice and environmental protection while harbouring individuals accused of destroying the very land our people depend on,” said a former regional executive who spoke under condition of anonymity.
Dr. Ayine’s directive to EOCO specifically urged investigators to revisit aspects of the report that may connect with Abanga’s operations, particularly concerning the deployment of state security and equipment to protect illegal mining sites.
Environmental groups and civil society organizations are also ramping up pressure. The Ghana Environmental Justice Network (GEJN) and OccupyGhana have jointly called for transparency in the EOCO investigation and urged the Attorney-General to ensure that the outcome is not shelved or influenced by political interests.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
The public response to the scandal has been fierce. Social media platforms are awash with calls for justice, and radio talk shows across the country are buzzing with heated debates about political corruption and environmental destruction.
If found culpable, Abanga could face not only resignation from his party post but potential criminal prosecution, asset seizure, and a ban from holding public office. The same fate may await others named in the investigation, including Joseph Yamin, who has so far remained silent on the matter.
EOCO is expected to submit a preliminary report to the Attorney-General’s office by the end of August 2025, after which further legal actions may follow.
As Ghana’s battle against galamsey enters a decisive phase, the question remains: will this investigation mark a turning point in the fight against environmental impunity, or will it become another politically charged case that fades with time?
