The National Communication Authority (NCA) has closed four radio stations in Bawku, in the Upper East Region.
The media outlets that have been affected are Bawku FM, Source FM, Zahra FM, and Gumah FM.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 24, the Authority explained that the action was necessary based on the Upper East Regional Security Council’s and the National Security Ministry’s recommendations and advice.
“…the operations of the said FM Stations and the incendiary utterances of their panellists/presenters have contributed to the escalation of the Bawku conflict, leading to the loss of lives and property in Bawku and its environs,” the statement said in part.
The NCA promised to work with all relevant stakeholders to carry out its mandate as required by law, adding that “stakeholders must adhere to the tenets and regulations governing the communications industry.”
Press Release
NCA SHUTS DOWN FOUR (4) FM RADIO STATIONS IN BAWKU ON GROUNDS OF
NATIONAL SECURITY
Accra, 24th February, 2024: The National Communications Authority (NCA) wishes to inform the general public that four (4) FM Radio Stations in Bawku, Upper East Region, have been shut down today.
The stations are:
1. Bawku FM
2. Source FM
3. Zahra FM and
4. Gumah FM
This follows the recommendations of the Upper East Regional Security Council, and on the advice of the Ministry of National Security that the operations of the said FM Stations and the incendiary utterances of their panellists/presenters have contributed to the escalation of the Bawku conflict, leading to loss of lives and property in Bawku and its environs.
Consequently, the NCA has invoked its powers to shut down the stations in accordance with Section 13(1)(e) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) which provides that: “the Authority may suspend or revoke a licence or a frequency authorisation where; the suspension or revocation is necessary because of national security or is in the public interest”.
The NCA will continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to execute its mandate as set out by law and calls on stakeholders to adhere to the tenets and regulations governing the
communications industry.
