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By Joseph Nana Yaw Cobbina
The Aowin Traditional Council has expressed deep concern over the conduct of the Member of Parliament (MP) for Aowin Constituency, Hon. Oscar Ofori Larbi, accusing him of gross disrespect toward the council.
The council asserts that Mr. Larbi has not contributed meaningfully to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) or the Aowin Constituency. While they maintain no issue with the NDC as a party, they strongly condemn Larbi’s alleged misconduct in matters related to chieftaincy and illegal mining, which they claim is devastating natural forest reserves and water bodies in the region.
In an interview, the Krontihene of the Aowin Traditional Council, Nana Oppong Panyin III, criticized Larbi’s alleged greed and criminal activities, stating that they tarnish the image of both the NDC and the constituency. He accused Larbi of undermining the authority of Aowin chiefs through power plays, arrogance, and disrespect.
According to Nana Krontihene, Larbi began encroaching on forest reserves for illegal mining on December 9, 2024. He further alleged that Larbi has been a key figure in illegal mining (galamsey) for the past six years, with Kwaku Ebi Dankwa (popularly known as KED) acting as his frontman. This alleged operation has severely impacted the region’s water bodies and forests.
The paramount chief also recounted an incident in 2020 when the Enchi Palace had to mediate between Larbi and security officers of Crisphil Mining Company after Larbi unlawfully entered the company’s concession. He challenged the MP to deny his involvement.
Following his electoral victory in the 2024 general elections, Larbi allegedly formed a galamsey task force led by KED, assisted by Karim, Farouk, and Awal Suleiman (also known as Baron). The task force reportedly imported thugs from northern Ghana, who spearheaded the illegal mining operations. They allegedly seized excavators and mining equipment from miners, demanding GHS 100,000 per excavator for their release.
Furthermore, it is claimed that Larbi’s group engaged in robberies, seizing gold from miners. The traditional council asserts that Larbi has used his political influence for personal enrichment while hindering the development of the constituency.
As a former District Chief Executive (DCE) of Enchi for eight years, Larbi is accused of failing to bring tangible development to the Aowin Municipality. The only notable infrastructure from his tenure is an incomplete community center, now allegedly a hub for drug dealers. The chief also accused Larbi of manipulating the construction of an E-Block promised by former President Mahama, allegedly using it to create division between Boinso and Jema townships for personal gain.
Additionally, Larbi is alleged to have dishonestly acquired 40 acres of Boinso CMB land and other properties, including land intended for the municipal assembly, which he allegedly used for personal businesses such as a fuel station and car wash. The paramount chief claimed Larbi engaged in illegal land sales and allocated plots to private entities against local regulations.
The traditional council strongly urges the NDC to take immediate action against Larbi, stating that he is unfit to serve as an MP. They also call on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to initiate investigations into his activities, pledging to provide evidence.
Finally, the Aowin Traditional Council appeals to the government, the Forestry Commission, the media, and security agencies to address the rampant illegal mining and environmental destruction in the region, which they describe as a threat to both Aowin and Ghana as a whole.