Former Deputy Minister of Defence, Major (Rtd) Derrick Oduro, has issued a strong warning about the growing threat of illegal mining, popularly known as Galamsey, cautioning that if urgent action is not taken, it could trigger serious social unrest in Ghana.
Speaking on Ikulcha TV/Radio with Kwesi E. Baako, Maj. Oduro described the galamsey menace as a “ticking time bomb” that could lead to widespread chaos if government and local authorities fail to address the grievances and tensions surrounding it.
“If care is not taken, galamsey could bring a big riot in Ghana,” he warned. “The way things are going, the youth involved in these activities feel abandoned and frustrated. When livelihoods are threatened, people can rise up.”
The retired army officer and former Member of Parliament for Nkoranza North noted that while the government’s fight against illegal mining is justified, the approach must be balanced with sustainable livelihood alternatives for those affected.
He cautioned that the continued destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves, coupled with heavy-handed security interventions , could ignite anger among local communities, leading to potential civil disturbances.
He urged national stakeholders, including traditional authorities and opinion leaders, to treat the galamsey issue as a matter of national security, not just environmental concern.
“The earlier we act decisively but fairly, the better. Otherwise, the social consequences will be disastrous,” he concluded.
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