By Jones Anlimah
The Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Hon. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, has denied allegations that he incited a mob to attack members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region.
In a statement issued on Sunday, November 2, 2025, Hon. Addo described the reports linking him to the attack as “false narratives aimed at tarnishing my reputation and undermining my efforts to serve my constituents.”
He clarified that his presence at the scene was to help defuse tensions between some residents and the joint military-police taskforce conducting anti-illegal mining operations in the area.
According to the MP, he was en route to a funeral in Acherensua when he noticed heightened tension in Hwidiem and stopped to inquire about the situation. After confirming that a military-led NAIMOS operation was ongoing, he contacted the Member of Parliament for Asutifi South, Hon. Collins Dauda, who asked him to visit the site and engage the team.
Hon. Addo explained that upon arrival, he introduced himself to the officers and advised that suspects and exhibits be taken to the Hwidiem Police Station to maintain order. He added that he later joined security officials and the Zongo Chief of Hwidiem at the station to help calm the agitated youth.
He noted that after the suspects and items were officially handed over to the Regional Crime Officer, the Zongo Chief volunteered to assist the military team with transportation since their pickup truck had been damaged. The Chief’s vehicle was later vandalized during the confrontation, but Hon. Addo said he had already left the area for other engagements in nearby communities.
The MP emphasized that at no point did he encourage violence or attempt to obstruct the work of the security agencies. He maintained that he had always been committed to peace, law, and order in his constituency.
Hon. Addo expressed disappointment that his efforts to de-escalate the situation were not acknowledged in the police report and urged the public to disregard any claims suggesting his involvement in inciting the attack.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare and safety of his constituents and pledged continued cooperation with state institutions to ensure lasting peace and development in the area.
