The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has directed the immediate shutdown of Gumah FM in Bawku following national security concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
According to a statement from the ministry, intelligence reports indicate that the station has been used to incite violence, disrupt public order, and escalate tensions in the conflict-prone area.
The directive follows an emergency meeting held on 11 February 2025, where REGSEC extensively reviewed recent security developments in Bawku and parts of the North East Region.
The ministry cited Section 13(1)(e) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), which empowers the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend or revoke frequency authorisations in the interest of national security, public order, or the public interest.
Following the directive:
- Gumah FM must cease all operations with immediate effect.
- Authorities will monitor the situation to prevent the emergence of alternative platforms that may be used to incite violence.
The government has urged all media entities to operate responsibly and adhere strictly to their frequency authorisation conditions.