Ghana Blackout: Public Fury Erupts After Substation Fire

Obuasi Blackout Sparks Calls for Minister's Dismissal A major fire at the GRIDCo substation in Obuasi, Ghana, plunged the area into darkness on May 22, 2025, sparking widespread outrage and calls for the dismissal of Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh. The incident, captured in a viral video, shows the substation engulfed in flames, highlighting the severity of the situation. "Energy minister Jinapor must go, he should be sacked," declares the video's author, reflecting the sentiment expressed by many residents. The blackout affected homes and businesses, disrupting daily life. The video's commentary, in Twi, conveys the frustration and anger felt by the community. While the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, the incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Ghana's power sector. The widespread impact of the outage and the public's demand for accountability make this a significant news story. The government is expected to release a statement addressing the incident and outlining plans to restore power and prevent future occurrences. The incident highlights the need for improved infrastructure and emergency response systems.