The recent attack on Prof. Nana Ama Klutse, the Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and her team during an anti-galamsey operation near Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, was cited by National Youth Organiser Salam Mustapha in a statement dated Monday, November 10, 2025, as a glaring indication of the growing insecurity in mining areas.

Mr Mustapha expressed concern about what he called a growing national security threat and urged President Mahama to act swiftly and forcefully to stop “the growing danger”.

Mr. President, you now have a clear justification for declaring a state of emergency in order to stop the escalating threat. This action is the most audacious one these galamseyers have ever displayed. Even more concerning is the fact that these individuals are better equipped and carry heavier weapons than the security services.

Mr Mustapha further emphasised the potential national security implications of such incidents, drawing parallels with other countries.

It is impossible to overstate the danger to national security. Guerrilla wars start like this; there are numerous examples of this all over the world, including the armed groups that surround Nigeria’s Rivers State and are connected to the oil industry. As a result, this issue cannot be ignored and handled normally. The repercussions are too severe.

The president clarified that although he is authorised by the constitution to declare such an emergency, the council has not yet decided that it is required. He reiterated his conviction that cooperative and sustainable tactics, as opposed to drastic ones, can win the fight against galamsey.