By Love Wilhelmina Abanonave
Lecturer at the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, Dr. Abdul Jalilu Ateku, has stated that the calls by several politicians for the declaration of a state of emergency regarding illegal mining operations should be made after January 7, 2026.
He believes the government still has the opportunity to redeem itself in the fight against the canker, also known as ‘galamsey’.
“I believe that we still have the opportunity to deal with it. I think that with President John Mahama, who wants to leave a legacy for this republic, he will be able to deal with this,” he said.
During a panel discussion on GBC’s ‘Current Agenda’ on November 22, 2025, Dr. Ateku said this would be one penalty kick that the ruling government has in order to score if they are able to resolve this matter.
He revealed that the previous government had the opportunity to resolve it from the beginning when they had the support of the media, citing that some water bodies were regenerating and returning to normal.
According to him, he was initially skeptical about the declaration of a state of emergency in earlier times.
“Initially, when the idea about declaring a state of emergency was up for discussion, I said it was too early, but if after January 7, 2026, we still have the situation this way, I think that I will begin to support people who are asking for a declaration of a state of emergency,” he added.
Dr. Ateku urged the government to fulfill its promise in the fight against illegal mining. He commended the government’s assurance in dealing with the issue.
