Takoradi: The Coalition of Concerned Nzema People (CCNP) has expressed concern over the delay in constituting the Land Committee that was promised to address critical community concerns and disputes surrounding lands affected by the proposed Petroleum Hub Development Project in Jomoro. The CCNP noted that "the unfulfilled promise of the Land Committee undermines due process."
According to Ghana News Agency, in a statement issued by Ing. Isaac Ndede, President of the Coalition of Concerned Nzema People, and copied to the agency in Takoradi in the Western Region, it was indicated that following a meeting between the office of the President and the CCNP on Monday, March 18, 2025, it was agreed that an independent Land Committee would be formed within three to four weeks. The purpose of the committee was to clarify the status of the affected lands-whether family lands, stool lands, or public lands-and to ensure a transparent and just acquisition or negotiations.
The CCNP reported that three months have elapsed, yet the committee has not been constituted. The statement mentioned that on April 15, 2025, the CCNP issued a formal reminder to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah. A response was received on April 16 requesting a nominee, which was submitted without delay. However, aside from the acknowledgment of their legal representative, no legal action has been taken to establish the full committee.
Meanwhile, the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) has proceeded with activities that appear to pre-empt the very process the committee was meant to oversee. It was noted that PHDC officials, in concert with certain traditional and state actors, have undertaken engagements and public visits aimed at promoting land access without resolving the underlying ownership disputes and community concerns. These actions, the statement noted, risk entrenching misinformation, thereby marginalizing rightful landowners and undermining public trust.
The delay in constituting the Land Committee, coupled with the PHDC's ongoing efforts to create a facade of consensus, reflects a troubling disregard for due process and the legitimate rights of Nzema families. The CCNP therefore called on the Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to honour their commitment without further delay. The CCNP resolved that the Lands Committee must be constituted immediately to ensure that justice, fairness, and transparency are not sacrificed in pursuit of expediency.
In the interim, the CCNP demanded an immediate suspension of all activities by the PHDC in the Jomoro area, including public engagements, land-related negotiations, and site visits. The statement said that allowing the PHDC to proceed without the oversight and legitimacy of the promised Land Committee risks deepening community mistrust, thereby compounding the very injustices the committee was meant to prevent. It indicated that continued action in the absence of the Committee would not only be premature but also a grave betrayal of the principles of due process and good faith.
