Akonta Mining Company Limited has sued the Minerals Commission and Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah. The company is demanding GH₵20 million in damages over defamation.

The case, filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, 2025, follows a press conference held by the Minister on April 22. During the event, the Minister accused Akonta Mining of illegal operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

According to the Minister, the company engaged in galamsey, breached mining rules, and sold concessions in the Aboi Forest for up to GH₵300,000 each.

He also claimed that Akonta collected weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold from these illegal miners.“These miners operate under the protection of Akonta Mining and continue to destroy River Tano and surrounding forests,”

Mr. Buah stated.In response, Akonta Mining denied all allegations. The company said it holds two valid 10-year mining leases, granted in 2021, covering Samreboe and Abokoase — areas outside the forest reserve.

It added that it had paid $301,000 in mineral rights fees and ground rent, and complied fully with all regulations.

Akonta stated that no evidence supports the Minister’s claims.The company wants GH₵20 million in damages, a public apology, and a court order preventing the Minister from making further “false” claims.