Akonta Mining Company Limited has initiated legal action against the Minerals Commission and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, over allegations linking the firm to illegal mining and corruption in forest reserves.

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Filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, the lawsuit seeks GH₵20 million in defamation damages. The mining company is also demanding a public apology and a court order restraining the Minister from making further statements deemed defamatory.

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The legal battle stems from remarks made by Mr Buah during an April 22 press briefing, where he accused Akonta Mining of engaging in unlawful mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve and facilitating access for unauthorised miners.

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"This company has not only trespassed into protected reserves but has become a criminal syndicate, selling access of the Aboi Forest Reserve to illegal miners for a staggering GH₵300,000 per concession,” the Minister alleged.

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He further claimed: "Worse, these illegal miners operate under Akonta’s protection, devastating the River Tano and surrounding forests with impunity."

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The Minister disclosed that as part of arrangements between the company and these miners, Akonta Mining allegedly receives weekly royalties.

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“As part of the agreement between Akonta Mining and the illegal miners, weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold are to be paid to the company, lining the pockets of Akonta’s collaborators," he stated.

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A day prior to the press conference, on April 21, the Lands Minister ordered the immediate cancellation of all mining licenses held by Akonta Mining, citing violations of mining regulations and involvement in galamsey operations.

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In its defense, Akonta Mining insists that it holds two valid 10-year leases issued in 2021, which cover Samreboe and Abokoase — areas the company claims lie outside the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

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The firm also pointed out that it has adhered strictly to the law, including payment of mineral rights fees and ground rents amounting to $301,000, and asserts that there is no factual basis for the Minister’s claims.

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Akonta Mining contends that the statements made by Mr Buah have tarnished its reputation, leading to the defamation suit.

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The company is urging the court to award GH₵20 million in compensation, compel the Minister to issue a retraction and apology, and prohibit further public commentary they deem false and injurious.

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