President John Dramani Mahama has issued a strong warning against illegal construction on waterways, wetlands, and Ramsar sites, vowing to demolish unauthorized structures that contribute to flooding and destruction.

Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, he condemned the reckless disregard for environmental laws, which continues to put lives and properties at risk.

“I must address a deeply troubling issue. The illegal construction of buildings in waterways is causing flooding and extensive destruction of property.

As we know, the rains are about to start, and already, we are seeing flooding because people have built and blocked the rivers, and so they have nowhere to go but to back up,” he stated.

The President did not only blame private individuals but also accused some chiefs of colluding to sell Ramsar sites for development.

“I am aware of instances where private individuals collude with some chiefs to convert Ramsar sites into built-up zones. Let me be clear, this must stop,” he warned.

As part of measures to prevent further disasters, Mahama announced that illegal structures obstructing waterways would be demolished, stressing that the law would be strictly enforced.

“Those structures will be pulled down, and we will not allow a few selfish individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of countless others. The law will be enforced, and those who flout it will face the consequences,” he declared.