NPP Regional Media Chair Demands Apology from Energy Minister Over “Power Thieves” Comment
The Northern Regional Chairman of the Publicity and Media Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Elee Waala, has called on the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, to retract and apologize for recent remarks labeling the people of the Northern Region—particularly residents of Tamale—as major contributors to electricity theft in the country.
Mr. Waala expressed deep concern over the Minister’s comments, describing them as “unfair, damaging, and a disservice to the region’s image.” He stressed that such generalizations unjustly stigmatize law-abiding citizens and risk eroding trust between the community and state institutions like the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
“Leadership must be careful with words,” Mr. Waala said. “Accusations of this nature fuel division and mistrust rather than encouraging constructive cooperation.”
Call for Accountability and Balanced Assessment
Mr. Waala criticized the Minister’s focus on illegal electricity connections without addressing systemic issues within NEDCo, such as poor infrastructure, lack of adequate metering, billing inaccuracies, and customer service failures. He argued that many of the so-called illegal connections are not necessarily acts of deliberate theft but rather outcomes of systemic neglect.
“Accountability must be shared, not dumped solely on residents,” he emphasized.
Insensitive Timing and Risk of Escalation
The NPP Regional Media Chair also highlighted the insensitive timing of the remarks, coming just after the holy month of Ramadan and the Eid festivities—a period traditionally associated with peace, reflection, and unity.
“Accusing an already economically burdened population of rampant theft without offering viable alternatives shows a lack of empathy and understanding,” he noted.
Mr. Waala warned that such statements could worsen tensions and hinder efforts to foster community cooperation with NEDCo’s operations.
A Call for Retraction and Respectful Dialogue
He urged the Energy Minister to retract the statement and issue an unreserved public apology to the people of the Northern Region. According to him, constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and inclusive leadership are essential for resolving the region’s electricity challenges and maintaining national cohesion.
Source: Ibrahim Angaangmeni Alhassan/Zaaghana.com
