In a dramatic turn of events reflecting deep public frustration over prolonged power outages, the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya Naa Abukari II, has refused to meet with Ghana’s Energy Minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, during a high-level visit to the Northern Region aimed at resolving the electricity supply crisis.
The minister and his delegation were reportedly denied entry at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, a symbolic gesture that sources close to the palace say was intended to send a clear and uncompromising message to government officials: “Dagbon deserves better.”
Though neither the Energy Ministry nor the palace has issued an official statement as of press time, viral videos circulating on social media show the minister’s convoy being turned away without ceremony, a rare and pointed rejection from one of the country’s most respected traditional institutions.
Minister Jinapor had travelled to the region to engage stakeholders and address tensions sparked by the suspension of services by the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), which has left many parts of Tamale and surrounding communities in darkness for weeks.
However, the Ya Naa, according to palace insiders, was deeply displeased by what he perceives as ongoing neglect and empty promises, and declined any engagement with the Minister until electricity is fully restored to his people.
“This was not just a snub—it was a stance,” a palace source told MyNewsGh. “The Ya Naa believes that symbolic visits and diplomatic courtesies mean little when families, schools, and businesses are suffering due to power cuts.”
The unprecedented gesture is being interpreted by many as a powerful act of accountability by traditional leadership, echoing widespread sentiments across the region that government responses have been too slow and inadequate.
While the move has sparked mixed reactions—some viewing it as a necessary wake-up call, others as politically loaded—it undeniably shines a spotlight on the growing rift between local communities and national leadership over infrastructure delivery and essential services.
As the blackout crisis deepens, pressure is mounting on the Energy Ministry to offer not just explanations, but tangible, urgent solutions—before more doors are closed and more patience runs out.
