Minister orders immediate shutdown of Gumah FM in Bawku citing national security concerns
Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has directed the immediate shutdown of Gumah FM in Bawku in the Upper East Region. This decision follows urgent national security concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
The directive was issued in a media advisory released by the Ministry after an emergency meeting held on 11th February 2025, where the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) reviewed recent security developments in the Bawku enclave and its surrounding areas in the Northeast region.
According to the Minister, Intelligence reports prove that Gumah FM was allegedly being used as a platform to incite violence, disrupt public order, and exacerbate tensions in the region.
The shutdown order as per Section 13(1)(e) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), authorizing the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend or revoke frequency authorisations in the interest of national security, public order, or the public interest.
The directive has asked Gumah FM Station to cease all operations with immediate effect and stated that monitoring will be conducted to prevent the emergence of alternative platforms that could be utilized to incite violence or destabilize the region further.
The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has reiterated its call for all media entities to operate responsibly and comply strictly with frequency authorization conditions. The government remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding national security, public safety, and the rule of law.
