Bright Simons not our spokesperson – Azumah Resources

Azumah Resources Ghana Limited has issued a strong public disclaimer, distancing itself from recent comments made by Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, regarding the company’s $100 million transaction with Engineers & Planners (E&P).

In a statement dated Sunday, July 13, 2025, the Australian-owned company clarified that Mr. Simons does not represent Azumah Resources, its directors, or shareholders in any capacity.

The company emphasized that his remarks on the ongoing dispute with E&P are personal opinions and should not be seen as reflective of the company’s official position.

This move comes amid heightened public and media attention surrounding the Black Volta Gold Project in Ghana’s Upper West Region, which was acquired by E&P in a high-profile commercial agreement signed on October 9, 2023.

The deal, valued at $100 million, was considered a landmark for local participation in Ghana’s mining sector.

Azumah Resources reaffirmed that it is currently engaged in confidential, good-faith negotiations with E&P to resolve the commercial dispute amicably and in accordance with directives from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

The company called on media outlets and commentators to refrain from speculation and rely solely on official statements from authorized company representatives.

“The Board of Directors of Azumah Resources Ghana have taken note of recent public commentary and media discourse relating to the ongoing matter between Azumah Resources and Engineers & Planners (E&P), particularly statements attributed to Mr. Bright Simons. While we acknowledge Mr. Simons’ constitutional right to express personal views on matters of public concern, we wish to categorically state that: Mr. Bright Simons does not represent, act on behalf of, or speak for the Shareholders or Directors of Azumah Resources Ghana in any capacity.”

“His public commentary constitutes his personal opinion and should not be construed, implied, or interpreted as reflective of the official position, intentions, or legal standing of Azumah
Resources or its Shareholders.”

The statement also addressed claims involving the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), expressing regret over what it described as “unwarranted and inaccurate” public references to the Bank.

Azumah clarified that while both parties had visited EBID’s Lomé office in 2023 to explore potential financing, the Bank’s interest remained preliminary, pending internal processes and board approval.

Meanwhile, Engineers & Planners issued its own statement earlier in July rejecting allegations made by Bright Simons.

The company confirmed that the acquisition agreement with Azumah Resources was finalized well before the December 2024 elections and that it has since been investing $500,000 monthly into the project.