By Love Wilhelmina Abanonave
Spokesperson to the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, has called for renewed commitment and sensitivity in the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, following the death of eight Ghanaian nationals in a helicopter crash on their way to Adansi Akuofrom in the Ashanti Region on national duty.
The deceased included the Defence Minister, Edward Omane Boamah; the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; and six others who were en route to Obuasi on official assignment.
Speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show, Sheikh Aremeyaw emphasised that the gallant men who lost their lives were on a mission to confront the scourge of illegal mining, and their sacrifice should serve as a wake-up call for the nation to take decisive action against galamsey. He urged that their memory be honoured with commitment and action, not just tributes.
“This should inspire a renewed commitment in the fight against galamsey, so that their deaths are not in vain,” he said, adding that the menace has for too long been treated as a joke. He also reminded President Mahama of the need for urgent, sustained efforts.
Sheikh Aremeyaw further called on Ghanaians to remain humble, as death can strike under various circumstances and times.
He concluded by describing the fallen as national heroes, likening their sacrifice to that of a woman in childbirt, risking her life to bring forth another. In the same spirit, he said, these men gave their lives while trying to protect the nation from environmental destruction.
