NMC warns media against obscenity, threatens penalties for offenders

The National Media Commission (NMC) has issued a strong warning to media outlets, urging them to exercise caution with the content they broadcast.

The Commission strongly indicated its readiness to enforce penalties on organizations that breach regulations.

During the commission's regulatory meeting on offensive media content with radio and TV stations, on Thursday, October 31, the NMC Chairman, Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo, expressed concern over the programming choices of numerous media outlets and called for heightened responsibility in broadcasting.

The NMC report revealed it received close to 9000 complaints this year, covering issues such as sexual content, money laundering, and loan fraud, with over 40 media organizations reportedly involved.

Among these, Oyerepa TV was specifically cited for airing explicit material. However, the station’s management voiced disappointment at being singled out in the report.

Despite this, the commission defended its actions, stating that the level of obscenity broadcast by Oyerepa TV posed significant harm and suggesting it may refer the matter to the National Communications Authority (NCA) to consider revoking the station’s license.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) criticized the NCA for lacking a clear roadmap in the digital migration process, questioning its commitment to upholding broadcasting standards.

In response, the NCA assured the public of its proactive role in monitoring and regulating the sector.

—citinewsroom