The overlord of Awiaso-Nzema traditional area, Awulae Kaku Ackah III, has categorically stated that he will not release the proposed 20,000 acres of land the government is seeking for the creation of an oil hub.
This comes after a public gathering was held by the Ministry of Energy, where the paramount Chief (Omanhene) of Western Nzema, Awulae Annor Adjaye Il, purportedly released the land for the project.
However, speaking on radio Gold’s show, Pampaso hosted by Kwasi Boakye, Awulae Kaku Ackah III emphasized that all lands in South-Western Ghana, from the Ankobra River to New Town, are under his care, and he will not release such a large proportion to the government.
He subsequently, expressed willingness to release 5,000 acres for the start of the project, with a possibility of additional 5,000 acres if necessary.
“The 20,000 acres of land the government wants to take to construct the oil hub is too huge. Although I need developmental projects in my area, I won’t release such a vast land to the energy ministry. I’ll give the government 5000 acres to start work. And if there is a need for additional land for the project depending on its state, I’ll release an additional 5000 acres .”
The Nzema King stressed that releasing 20,000 acres would leave his people without land for farming, their main source of livelihood.
He also raised concerns about the government’s approach, stating that they did not follow the proper channels for land acquisition and instead dealt with a caretaker chief, Awulae Annor Adjaye III who has no authority to release land
“Annor Adjaye knows he is just a caretaker and that has no right or documents to release lands to anyone”. The overlord of the Awiaso-Nzema traditional area declared.
Awulae Kaku Ackah Ill reiterated that he wants development in his area but will only release a reasonable amount of land for the petroleum hub, not the proposed 20,000 acres.
“I want development in my area therefore if President Nana Addo indeed wants to establish the petroleum hub, I’m ready to release 5000 acres of the land for the project but I’ll never release the said 20000 acres to the government.” He stated on authority.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/Joseph Marfo
