The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has suspended operations of seven radio stations across the country through the National Communications Authority (NCA).
In an announcement made on his X Tuesday, February 18, 2025, he said: “Today, in two separate cases, I have directed the @NCAGhana to suspend and enforce a prohibition of broadcast on seven (7) radio stations in total.”
Mr. George disclosed that the stations were shutdown based on the grounds of lacking the requisite authorisation from the NCA, as well as concerns on national security.
“In one instance, on national security grounds and in six other cases on the grounds of broadcasting without a valid frequency authorisation based on the recently requested frequency audit.” He added that enforcement of the directive was immediate and that “further action would be taken in the coming days,” he indicated.
Stations affected
The Ministry confirmed the shutdown of the stations with an advisory, stating the failure to obtain valid frequency authorisations as its reasons for the action which is in violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
The affected stations include:
Fire Group of Companies, Sunyani (90.1 MHz)
I-Zar Consult Limited, Tamale (89.7 MHz)
Abochannel Media Group, Adidome (105.7 MHz)
Okyeame Radio Limited, Bibiani (99.7 MHz)
Mumen Bono Foundation, Techiman (99.7 MHz)
Osikani Community FM, Nkrankwanta (99.7 MHz)
The Ministry explained that these stations had “failed to renew their authorisations, fulfil statutory payment obligations, or submit the required documentation within the stipulated timeframe.” As a result, their continued operations were deemed illegal, and the NCA was tasked with ensuring compliance.
National Security concerns
In a separate development, the government has ordered the immediate closure of Gumah FM in Bawku following “urgent national security concerns” raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC). Intelligence reports suggested that the station had been “used as a platform to incite violence, disrupt public order, and escalate tensions in the region.”
The directive was issued under Section 13(1)(e) of the Electronic Communications Act, which allows the NCA to revoke frequency authorisations in the interest of national security and public order. The ministry has warned that ongoing monitoring will be conducted to prevent the re-establishment of illegal platforms.
Reaffirming his stance, Mr George stated: “Once again, I reiterate my commitment to sanitising our airwaves and ensuring strict adherence with the law concerning frequency authorisations.” He urged all media houses to ensure full compliance with their broadcasting regulations.
The ministry has assured the public that further updates will be provided as necessary.
