Workers of the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), under the Volta River Authority (VRA), have suspended all operations in the Tamale Metropolis following violent attacks against staff and the seizure of official vehicles.
The decision took effect on Wednesday, July 31, after tensions escalated the previous day.
The situation began when residents allegedly stopped and impounded NEDCo vehicles moving through Tamale. Several drivers were reportedly assaulted during the incidents. According to the company, this is not the first time its staff and property have come under threat in the area.
Sources say the unrest was sparked by the Managing Director’s refusal to reinstate a staff member who had been transferred, despite appeals from traditional authorities.
The King of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, reportedly intervened, asking the MD to reverse the transfer. After being referred to the Gulkpe-Na, the paramount chief of Tamale, the MD allegedly failed to appear after multiple invitations.
Feeling ignored and frustrated, some young residents began intercepting NEDCo vehicles and parking them at the Gulkpe-Na’s Palace. In response, workers have outlined four key demands before they resume operations.
They are calling on management and law enforcement to identify and prosecute those responsible for the assaults.
They also want a clear explanation for why innocent staff members were attacked, as well as assurances of safety moving forward.
Finally, they demand the immediate retrieval of the seized vehicles.
One concerned worker said, “We cannot continue to work in fear. We are here to serve the public, not to be beaten for decisions beyond our control”.
The company is expected to meet with relevant authorities to resolve the standoff and restore services safely and promptly.
