Sod-cutting for petroleum hub to proceed despite protest

The sod-cutting ceremony for Ghana’s highly anticipated Petroleum Hub Project will proceed as scheduled on Monday, August 19, 2024, despite a recent protest petition.

 The petition, which called for the project to be halted due to alleged procedural lapses and insufficient compensation, has been dismissed by the President’s office.

In a formal response, the Secretary to the President, Ambassador Nana Bediatuo Asante, addressed the concerns raised in the petition, stating, “The petition did not provide any substantive evidence to support its claims, apart from an 83-page list of alleged signatories. After thorough review, it is clear that all processes for the compulsory acquisition of the land have been conducted in full compliance with the law.”

The President’s office also referenced a letter from the Western Nzema Traditional Council, led by its President, Awulae Annor Adjaye III, which strongly supported the project’s continuation. “The response from the Western Nzema Traditional Council denies the assertions in your petition and encourages the President to proceed with the sod-cutting ceremony,” Ambassador Asante noted, adding that the council views the Petroleum Hub Project as a significant benefit to the people of Western Nzema.

Ambassador Asante further emphasized that the government’s actions are in line with the Constitution and the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036). “The 20,000 acres of land for the Petroleum Hub Project is the subject of compulsory acquisition by the State. All necessary stakeholder consultations and legal requirements have been fulfilled,” he stated, dismissing claims that the land was being improperly registered.

With the petition dismissed, the Petroleum Hub Project, a key initiative aimed at boosting Ghana’s energy sector, will move forward as planned, marking an important milestone for the country’s development. “The President will undertake the sod-cutting as scheduled, reaffirming the government’s commitment to this project and its potential to benefit the nation,” Ambassador Asante concluded.