Mr. Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen has described the ongoing situation in Gbane a mining community in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region as disheartening and saddening.
According to Mr. Ngamegbulam, as a journalist, he has always strived to advocate for the best interests of the community and its residents. However, recent events have revealed a harsh truth about some individuals they as media personalities fight for, as they seem to have their own selfish interests at heart.
The conflict surrounding the Gbane mining issue between a Chinese company Earl International and the community has not only brought humiliation to them as media practitioners but has also created enemies among those they seek justice for – the ordinary Talensi, small scale miners, and Gbani citizens.
He said, his disillusionment grew when I learned that the small scale miners in Gbane, whom we have been championing for, have struck a deal with Earl International to surrender their concessions. Despite receiving compensation for their concessions, reports suggest that funds were transferred to the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) account for disbursement by the Upper East Regional Minister to these concession owners. However, few groups allege they did not receive their share, implicating a certain Robert Boazor who allegedly accepted a portion on behalf of the group.
The fact that these concession owners, all hailing from Talensi, willingly sold their means of livelihood to Earl International Company for personal gain is disappointing. By accepting financial incentives and quarterly payments, they essentially relinquished control over their concessions, leaving the fate of the community in the hands of the company.
“It is disheartening to see innocent Talensi citizens suffer due to the greed and shortsightedness of a few. As a journalist, I will remain steadfast in shedding light on this issue and holding accountable those responsible for betraying their community”.
As the dust settles, questions arise about the involvement of NGOs in the area and their potential ulterior motives. Amidst all the chaos, it is unfortunate that sincere media practitioners find themselves under scrutiny, while the concession owners enjoy financial benefits at the expense of their own people.
These are little facts:
Did small scale miners gave out their concessions to Earl International? The answer is ‘YES’
Did Earl International transferred funds to RCC account for the Regional Minister onward distribution to these concession owners (Small Scale Miners)? The answer is big ‘YES’
Did the Regional Minister distributed these monies to the concession owners (small scale miners) YES, but few groups still have issues which I personally think is regrettable.
What about the NGOs in the area, are they having their parochial interest? Big “YES”
The recent clash was between the miners and military personnel who were deployed by REGSEC together with the police to ensure security for what was described as illegal mining pits sealing exercise.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana
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