The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition is sounding the alarm over potential power supply disruptions in Tamale and its surrounding areas, following the withdrawal of services by employees of the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
This serious turn of events follows a joint resolution by the leadership of the VRA/NEDCo Senior Staff Association and the Division Union after an emergency meeting convened on Thursday, July 31, 2025. The actions of the staff were prompted by violent attacks that occurred the previous day, July 30.
Reports indicate that workers, while driving official vehicles, were ambushed, forcibly pulled from their cars, and assaulted with sticks and clubs. The assailants seized their vehicles, transporting them to the Gukpena Palace, which has raised severe concerns about the safety of utility personnel in the region.
Describing these attacks as “barbaric,” the staff unions highlighted a troubling history of violence against VRA/NEDCo employees in the area. They cited past incidents, including attacks in Lamakara in 2016, Dohinayilli in 2017, Vittin in 2019, and various acts of vandalism at company offices dating back to 2015.
In light of this escalating situation, the Ministry has called for calm and pledged to take swift action to address the matter. Richmond Rockson, the Head of Communications at the Ministry, spoke on behalf of the sector’s minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, who is currently on short leave. During his absence, the Minister of Finance is managing the operations of the Ministry and will be briefed about the ongoing situation.
“The Ministry has taken notice of these reports,” Rockson affirmed. “Hon. Jinapor will be returning on Monday, August 4, and he will take immediate steps to address and resolve the impasse.”
He also issued a warning that the withdrawal of services could lead to significant difficulties in electricity delivery, urging residents to stand in solidarity with utility workers. “On behalf of my Minister, I urge residents of Tamale and surrounding communities to cooperate with VRA/NEDCo staff as they go about their duties. Any further hostilities will only deepen the crisis and risk prolonged power disruptions,” he advised.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of utility staff while working diligently to restore full services as quickly as possible. As tensions rise, the call for community support in this challenging situation becomes increasingly poignant.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
