Talensi residents storm Assembly, reject electricity bills over persistent blackouts

Hundreds of residents in Tongo and surrounding communities in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region have refused to pay their electricity bills, resisting attempts by the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) to disconnect power over accumulated debt.

According to the residents, for the past five months they have endured persistent blackouts lasting several days whenever it rains or even threatens to rain — a situation they say has severely affected livelihoods, businesses, and social activities.

On Monday, August 24, 2026, NEDCo officials attempted to disconnect power to households, shops, and institutions in parts of Talensi due to huge outstanding bills. However, residents resisted the exercise, preventing the officials from carrying out their duties. The aggrieved residents later massed up at the Talensi District Assembly to register their displeasure.

For months, the area has experienced total darkness for days after rainfall, and even when general outages are restored, Tongo and many surrounding communities remain without power for more than 24 hours.

Residents expressed deep frustration over the situation.

“We have endured this pain for a long time. Our electrical appliances are damaged and businesses are suffering because of the persistent blackouts. It is very bad,” one resident lamented.

“How can NEDCo come and disconnect our lights when we have not even enjoyed stable electricity?” another resident questioned.

A cold store operator also described the devastating impact on her business.

“Just look at the fish and meat in the fridge — they are all going bad because of the lights out. The power went off around 10 a.m. and it’s almost 6 p.m. now. As usual, it will go beyond tonight,” she said.

Talensi District Chief Executive Millim Nabwomya said efforts are underway to permanently resolve the electricity challenges in the district.

Meanwhile, NEDCo officials have remained tight‑lipped on the matter until a resolution is reached.