In a strong display of leadership and crisis diplomacy, John Abdulai Jinapor, Ghana’s Minister for Power and Green Transition, has spearheaded a multi-stakeholder dialogue in the Northern Region to address the escalating tensions that led to the withdrawal of services by staff of the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
The move follows a disturbing incident on July 31, where NEDCo/VRA staff were attacked by irate youth in Tamale while executing their duties — an assault that left some staff severely injured and forced the union to suspend operations, plunging parts of the metropolis into darkness.
Determined to de-escalate the crisis and restore essential power services, Mr. Jinapor — cutting short his leave — embarked on a mission of reconciliation and engagement, meeting with a cross-section of traditional authorities, government officials, and union leaders.
Strategic Engagements to Calm Tensions
In Tamale on Tuesday, the Minister held separate high-level meetings with:
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The Northern Regional Minister and REGSEC
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Ya-Na Abukari II, Overlord of Dagbon
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The Paramount Chief of Gulkpegu Traditional Area
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The Senior Staff Association (SSA) of VRA/NEDCo
Addressing the media after the meetings, Mr. Jinapor expressed cautious optimism about the progress made.
“It does appear we are making very significant headway,” he said, adding that he was awaiting final confirmation from the union before full power restoration could begin.
“I’m not leaving Tamale today. I’ll stay until I receive the official message. Only then can we work to bring electricity back to the affected communities.”
Rebuilding Trust, Restoring Order
The Minister’s intervention comes at a time when public tension is high, with disrupted power supply affecting homes, businesses, and critical institutions. His mission was not only technical — to restore power — but also deeply diplomatic, seeking to rebuild trust between electricity workers and the communities they serve.
Mr. Jinapor condemned the attack on NEDCo/VRA personnel, describing it as “unacceptable,” and called on the youth of Tamale to exercise restraint going forward.
He also took the opportunity to dispel misinformation about alleged derogatory remarks attributed to him.
“To my surprise, I’ve been informed that I ever said the people of Tamale are thieves. That is false. I have never, and will never, utter such words,” he stressed.
As a native of the region himself, he reaffirmed his respect and dedication to the people of Tamale, noting that his focus remains on fostering unity and ensuring that workers can safely perform their duties.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
Mr. Jinapor emphasized that his mandate as Minister is people-centered, focused on guaranteeing uninterrupted power supply, peaceful coexistence, and a safe working environment for all sector staff.
“I have no sides. My preference is the people — the customers. My preference is ensuring workers go to work in peace and serve the people in dignity,” he stated.
As the Minister remains in Tamale awaiting formal feedback from the union, many residents are hopeful that his calm but firm approach will help de-escalate the situation and usher in a new chapter of cooperation and respect between electricity providers and the community.
