Akonta Mining sues Lands Minister, Minerals Commission demands GHC20m in damages

Akonta Mining Company Limited has sued the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, and the Minerals Commission. The lawsuit challenges the recent revocation of its mining lease.

On April 21, 2025, the government announced it canceled Akonta Mining’s license. This decision was due to allegations of illegal mining, known as galamsey, in protected forest reserves.

During a press briefing in Accra, Minister Buah shared findings from undercover investigations. He stated that Akonta Mining had encroached on the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves without permits. Although licensed to operate off-reserve, they violated regulations.

The Minister also alleged that Akonta Mining sold access to these reserves. They reportedly charged illegal miners up to GHS 300,000 for concessions. Some miners paid royalties of up to 250 grams of gold weekly to the company.

In response to these claims, Akonta Mining filed a lawsuit on April 29. They are seeking GHS 20 million in damages for what they call defamatory statements. The statement of claim includes demands for special damages for libel published by the defendant.

The company wants an order requiring the Minister to retract his statements. They also seek a public apology across various media platforms like television and social media.

Other requests include an injunction against further defamatory statements and reimbursement of legal costs. The case will examine the balance between government actions against illegal mining and companies' legal rights.