CoQOA has raised concerns over the encroachment of its sites by unauthorised settlers
The Commercial Quarry Operators Association (CoQOA) has declared encroachment on quarry lands a national emergency, warning of severe risks to public safety and national development.
In a press release issued on June 11, 2025, CoQOA stated, “The alarming scale of encroachment on quarry lands across the country, particularly in areas such as Buoho, Ablekuma, Nsawam, and Budumburam, is causing rising threats to public safety and national development due to unauthorised occupation of quarry lands and buffer zones.”
The association highlighted that unauthorised structures are being erected in close proximity to active blasting sites, in blatant violation of Regulation 176 of the Minerals and Mining (Explosives) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2177), which mandates a 500-meter safety buffer between blasting zones and human settlements.
CoQOA clarified that “it is not licensed quarry operators violating safety protocols, but rather unauthorised settlers breaching legally protected zones,” some of whom “issue threats, incite unrest, and manipulate public sentiment through the media.”
CoQOA warned that unchecked encroachment endangers lives, threatens jobs, disrupts infrastructure projects, and causes significant revenue losses to the state.
The association appealed to the media to refrain from sensational coverage that fuels fear and misrepresents the facts and urged government bodies, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, and the Environmental Protection Agency, to act decisively.
The association also demanded actions, including “immediate demolition of all unauthorised structures within protected buffer zones,” prosecution of those involved in illegal land sales, disconnection of utility services to settlers, and expedited legal action on encroachment cases.
CoQOA further called for “formal government recognition of its association as a strategic partner in safeguarding quarry zones.”
The association warned that it will be compelled to suspend its operations if its concerns are not addressed. “Should these urgent issues continue to go unaddressed, CoQOA and its members may be compelled to suspend quarry operations nationwide to protect lives, equipment, and lawful concessions,” the statement added.
GA