- Energy Minister John Jinapor led a delegation to Gbewaa Palace on August 5, 2025
- Dagbon Overlord received the delegation but rejected NEDCo’s apology
- NEDCo is criticized for cutting electricity to parts of Tamale, including traditional areas
Energy and Green Transition Minister, John Jinapor, has confirmed that although a delegation he led to the Gbewaa Palace on Tuesday, August 5, was received, the Overlord of Dagbon declined to accept an apology issued on behalf of the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
The Minister’s visit formed part of an effort to ease tensions following recent disputes between NEDCo and traditional authorities in the Northern Region.
Earlier reports suggested that the Overlord had refused to meet the delegation, demanding that power be restored to all affected areas before any dialogue could begin. However, the Minister clarified to Myjoyonline that while the delegation was received, the apology was not accepted.
“The Overlord received us but rejected the apology we presented on behalf of the NEDCo management,” Mr. Jinapor stated.
NEDCo has faced heavy backlash for prolonged power outages in parts of Tamale, including key traditional jurisdictions. Critics have also accused the utility of showing disrespect to Dagbon’s leadership.
In response, NEDCo cited security threats to its field workers, claiming they had faced intimidation and obstruction during routine operations.
“We had to halt operations to ensure the safety of our staff,” a company spokesperson explained.
With no resolution yet in sight, the impasse continues to strain relations between NEDCo and traditional leaders, prompting public protests and renewed calls for immediate power restoration and dialogue.
