By: Baba Mohammed Issahaq
The Tamale Metropolitan Assembly (TaMA) has waded into the growing controversy surrounding the ongoing mass power disconnection exercise by the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), calling for its immediate suspension.
In a press release issued on Sunday, the Assembly described the operation as a “widely condemned” campaign that is doing more harm than good. While the initiative is reportedly aimed at curbing illegal electricity connections and tackling power theft, it has sparked public outrage and growing unease across the city.
Residents have raised concerns about the methods being used, with several alleging that NEDCo teams are carrying out disconnections between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. an approach many view as intrusive and insensitive.
“This is not just about electricity anymore,” one resident told a Tolon radio. “It’s about safety, dignity, and respect for people’s privacy.”
The Assembly warned that continuing the exercise in its current form could lead to unrest, stressing the need for a more measured and humane strategy.
Tamale Mayor, Hon. Adam Abubakar Takoro, is reportedly in talks with officials from NEDCo and VRA to explore alternative enforcement methods that maintain order while respecting the rights and well-being of residents.
In the meantime, the Assembly is urging residents to remain calm and assured the public that discussions are ongoing to resolve the matter peacefully.
“We understand the frustrations,” the statement read. “But we appeal to the people of Tamale to be patient as we work with the relevant authorities to find a solution that balances accountability with community peace.”
The situation continues to unfold as city leaders, power providers, and the public navigate a tense standoff over the future of electricity enforcement in the metropolis.
