We Won’t Leave Our Ancestral Lands” – Tontokrom Residents Defy Asanko Gold’s Eviction Attempt
Tension is mounting in Tontokrom, a mining town in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, as residents have openly declared their refusal to vacate their ancestral lands amid mounting pressure from Asanko Gold Mining Company. The latest development has reignited a long-standing land dispute between the community and the mining company, with locals accusing the firm of attempting to forcefully displace them under the cover of mining operations.
According to the residents, a recent meeting at the District Assembly revealed plans for the possible relocation of the entire Tontokrom township to facilitate the company’s mining expansion. The proposal has sparked outrage among community members, who say they were never consulted and will not surrender the lands inherited from their forefathers.
At a passionate press conference organized by the residents over the weekend, traditional authorities, opinion leaders, and the youth voiced a unified message to both the government and Asanko Gold: they will not be moved.
Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini, the Mmamahene of Tontokrom, led the charge, stating emphatically:
“We will not leave our ancestral lands. The lands belong to our ancestors and we, their descendants, are the rightful custodians. Asanko has no legal title over these lands, and we have not signed any agreement with them. We will not allow military intimidation to drive us out of our own home.”
The traditional leader further accused Asanko Gold of deploying military personnel to harass, brutalize, and in some cases kill residents, in a calculated attempt to instill fear and break the community’s resistance. He added that the community is not against development, but any such initiative must be done lawfully, with respect for human rights and traditional ownership.
Also speaking at the event, youth leader Kwadwo Addo expressed the anger and frustration of the young people in the town, warning of possible confrontation should the state fail to intervene.
“We don’t want to fight, but we are ready to defend our land. The military always comes here to beat and kill our people. Last year, we lost brothers to gunshots. This time, if they try again, we will resist with all our might,” he said.
Another resident, Sofo Maame, recalled a disturbing experience from a previous military invasion.
“They came and started shooting in the middle of town. People were running for their lives. Some were wounded, others died. Why should we live in fear on our own land? Enough is enough.”
The people of Tontokrom are calling on key national figures and institutions to intervene before the situation spirals out of control. Among those petitioned are former President John Dramani Mahama, the Ashanti Regional Minister, the Minister for Defense, and the Minister for the Interior.
Additionally, they have made a heartfelt plea to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, to step in and defend their rights as his loyal subjects and protect the land heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom.
“Our plea to Otumfuo is simple: As our overlord, we need you to stop this unlawful eviction. We trust in your leadership to ensure justice prevails,” said Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini.
The residents insist they will never exchange their birthright for gold or money. To them, the land is more than property — it is identity, heritage, and survival.
As the standoff deepens, the people of Tontokrom remain unwavering in their resolve to stay put, sending a clear message to all stakeholders: they will not be evicted without a fight.
Contact Information:
Nana Addo – 0247733818
Emmanuel Appiah – 0537784816
Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanini – 0505208869
