The Northern Electricity Distribution Company’s (NEDCo) efforts to recover debts from customers in the Tamale Metropolis are reportedly being hindered by Regional Minister Hon. Ali Adolf John.
NEDCo announced it would embark on a Revenue Mobilisation and Loss Control exercise in all of its operational areas, effective April 7, 2025, to recover debts owed by consumers.
Although the exercise commenced as planned, reports suggest that Minister John ordered NEDCo authorities to suspend the exercise in Tamale.
The Minister reportedly cited the recent Eid celebrations, stating that residents had made significant financial commitments and needed time to pay for their electricity consumption.
However, checks by this portal indicate that the exercise is proceeding smoothly in other NEDCo operational areas, sparking questions about the Minister’s decision to suspend the exercise in Tamale.
According to sources, Minister John mentioned during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Metropolitan Chief Executive of Tamale that his action was intended to give the people of the Northern Region a breathing space after the Eid festivities.
“This is not a cancellation but a suspension to give the people of the Northern Region a breathing space, especially after the Eid festivities,” he stated.
“Let me be clear: illegal connections will not be entertained. I urge everyone to comply with the rules and pay their bills to avoid disconnection when the exercise resumes,” he said.
The Regional Minister’s decision reportedly did not sit well with Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor, who visited Tamale to persuade him.
However, the Regional Minister maintained his stance.
During a media interaction, Minister Jinapor revealed that 50 per cent of NEDCo’s total power losses originate from the northern sector, with 70 per cent of that figure concentrated in Tamale alone.
Stakeholders have criticised the Regional Minister’s action, viewing it as inappropriate.
They have called on the Minister to desist from issuing such directives in the future, emphasising the need for consistent enforcement of electricity bill payments across all regions.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Discover more from Energy News Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.