The National Communications Authority (NCA) has taken a significant step by closing four FM radio stations in Bawku, in the Upper East Region of the country.
In a press release issued by the NCA on Saturday, February 24, the authority revealed the closure of the radio stations, which were namely Bawku FM, Source FM, Zahra FM and Gumah FM.
Elucidating their conduct, the authority stated that the action follows concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council and the Ministry of National Security regarding the stations’ role in the Bawku conflict.
The NCA invoked its powers under the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) to suspend the stations’ operations, citing national security interests and public safety.
“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 authority further stated that as it continues to fulfil its mandate in accordance with established laws, all stakeholders should comply with industry regulations and collaborate constructively in fostering a safe and conducive communication environment for all.
Speaking in an interview, the Director of Consumer and Corporate Affairs of NCA, Nana Defie Badu stressed that the NCA does not monitor content, highlighting that they worked with the national security based on their action to maintain peace within Bawku.
“Ministry of National Security has come to the realization that some of the actions of these radio stations had actually led to some negative situations, if I may call it that way, resulting in some loss of life and some properties. So based on that, national security informed the NCA. And I should say that the NCA, under section 13(1)(e) of the Electronic Communications Act, the NCA invoked its powers.”
“It’s also important for us to note that the NCA does not monitor content, so we work with the national security, based on their actions or their intelligence, to maintain peace within that area,” she further stated.
In clarifying that while the standard procedure for such actions require prior notice, Mrs. Defie explained that the main reason for taking action without prior notification was to “maintain peace for the shutdown period,” especially in “areas where we are likely to face some negative actions from the people.”
Below is the statement from the NCA. 
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Story by: Nsoh Ezekiel | univers.ug.edu.gh
