Gabby narrates why Asaase Radio has been shut down

Asaase Radio 99.5, the Accra-based station founded by Mr. Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has been forced off air following regulatory action by the National Communications Authority (NCA).

The shutdown, which comes just days before the station’s fifth anniversary, was due to a lapse in renewing its broadcasting licence.

“Yes, it's true. Asaase Radio 99.5, which celebrates its 5th anniversary Saturday, has been shut down,” Mr. Otchere-Darko announced on his social media platforms on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

“The General Manager informs me it's because the station delayed in renewing its licence last year. It was to be renewed by October but only done in December 2024.”

The station’s closure is part of a broader enforcement operation by the NCA targeting FM broadcasters that have failed to meet licensing obligations. According to the Authority, the affected outlets—Asaase Radio among them—are guilty of “persistent violations” of broadcasting regulations.

In a statement released the same day, the NCA explained that the move was rooted in breaches of Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), as well as non-compliance with the terms of their authorisation.

The NCA’s actions follow a directive from the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, which tasked the authority with implementing recommendations from a recent audit aimed at tightening compliance in the broadcasting sector.

Stations affected by the enforcement, including Asaase Radio, must resolve all outstanding infractions before being allowed back on air. The NCA stressed that compliance is non-negotiable.

“While the NCA acknowledges the vital role radio stations play in national development, it is imperative that all Authorisation Holders strictly adhere to the regulatory requirements and conditions of their Authorisations,” the authority stated.

It added, “Failure to comply with this directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM Broadcasting with grave consequences for their Authorisations.”

This marks the first phase of the NCA’s enforcement campaign, with 62 stations impacted so far. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to restoring order within the broadcasting space and urged all stations to promptly address any compliance issues.