Communications Minister,Sam George Orders Shutdown of Seven Radio Stations for Security and Licensing Violations

Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, has directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately suspend broadcasting operations for a total of seven radio stations across Ghana. The directives stem from two separate cases, with one station being shut down due to national security concerns and the remaining six facing sanctions for operating without valid frequency authorizations.

The most immediate action involves Gumah FM station in Bawku, which was ordered to cease broadcasting immediately. This decision followed urgent national security concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council. According to intelligence reports, Gumah FM has allegedly been used as a platform to incite violence, disrupt public order, and escalate tensions within the Bawku region, warranting immediate intervention.

The remaining six radio stations were directed to cease operations for violating Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), which mandates that radio stations operate with valid frequency authorizations. These stations, identified following a recent frequency audit, are: Fire Group of Companies in Sunyani (90.1 MHz), I-Zar Consult Limited in Tamale (89.7 MHz), Abochannel Media Group in Adidome (105.7 MHz), Okyeame Radio Limited in Bibiani (99.7 MHz), Mumen Bono Foundation in Techiman, and Osikani Community FM in Nkrankwanta.

The Minister’s statement suggests that further actions and sanctions could be taken against other non-compliant media outlets in the coming days. He reiterated his commitment to “sanitizing” Ghana’s airwaves and ensuring strict compliance with all legal requirements pertaining to frequency authorizations. To this end, he urged all media houses to thoroughly review and ensure they are fully complying with the terms and conditions outlined in their frequency authorizations.

Hon. Samuel Nartey George’s actions signal a firm stance on enforcing broadcasting regulations and prioritizing national security. The immediate shutdowns highlight the government’s commitment to holding media outlets accountable for their operations and preventing the misuse of radio frequencies for harmful purposes. The Minister’s concluding remarks serve as a clear warning to all media organizations to adhere to the law or face similar consequences.