Wontumi Communications Speaks after NCA Shutdown: "Don't Worry Your Heads"

• Wontumi Communications has downplayed the NCA’s suspension directive, stating that its radio and tv networks were still operating
• Following the announcement, a letter from the Presidency called on the Communications Minister and the NCA to show clemency
• The attempted shutdown of the radio stations comes after the revocation of Akonta Mining’s license and Chairman Wontumi's arrest

Wontumi Communications responded confidently after being listed among 52 radio stations ordered by the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend operations for regulatory violations.

In a social media response that has since gone viral, Wontumi Communications appeared unfazed by the development and claimed its networks were still operating as usual.

When an X user, Dr Sneaker Nyame, tagged Wontumi FM to check if they were still operating, the station’s official handle replied:

“Hello @_sneakernyame, Wontumi 101.3 and Wontumi TV is working. Don’t worry your head.”

NCA attempts to shutdown 64 radio stations

The NCA, in a statement dated June 12, 2025, cited persistent breaches of Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulation, 2011 (LI 1991), as grounds for the suspension.

Notable among the affected stations were Asaase Radio, linked to Gabby Otchere-Darko, and Wontumi FM, owned by Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

However, the Presidency intervened after the announcement, requesting that the Communications Minister, Samuel Nartey George, and the NCA exercise clemency and consider giving the affected stations time to rectify their infractions.

The shutdown directive adds to a string of recent setbacks for Chairman Wontumi. His company, Akonta Mining, recently had its operational license revoked over alleged illegal mining in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

The CID headquarters in Accra later summoned him, and after two days of questioning, he was arrested and detained by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

Although granted bail, Wontumi reportedly failed to meet the bail conditions and remained in custody for six days.

Despite these legal troubles, Wontumi Communications appears unshaken, with its online response suggesting confidence and continuity in operations, even as uncertainty surrounds the NCA’s next steps.

The reply by Wontumi Communications after the attempted NCA shutdown is below:

Wontumi Communications' response to NCA triggers reactions

Netizens who saw the response of Wontumi Communications to the NCA's attempted shutdown expressed mixed reactions in the comments section, with some sympathising with the media house and others calling it out for allegedly not doing the right thing.

@Dmayne14 wrote:

"Yes, it’s working, but till when? So even if we don’t worry today, we will tomorrow. To be honest, the only thing we all wish stays is your sports team."

@premooooooo wrote:

"What should we say to Pres. Mahama?"

@AlexJr4190 wrote:

"30 days don't fix the mess. You figa you go trend 😹 fool and see."

What is Wontumi Communications?

Wontumi Communications is a Ghanaian media company based in Kumasi and owned by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

It operates Wontumi Radio (101.3 FM) and Wontumi TV and programs in various areas, especially politics, entertainment, sports and current affairs.

Because of its mainly pro-NPP positioning, Wontumi Communications has become an influential voice in Ghana's political media environment including its key foothold in the Ashanti Region.

The network has also faced numerous controversies. In 2020 it was sued for defamation after it aired allegations about Former President Mahama.

In 2022, Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) claimed it had stolen power to the amount of more than GH₵300,000. However, neither the legal issues nor any other incident has significantly reduced its influence or operations.

Furthermore, Wontumi Communications has also been a contributor to cultural revival, having helped to reintroduce a traditional Ghanaian stage drama known as 'Concert Party' in partnership with the National Theatre of Ghana in 2022.

Ultimately, Wontumi Communications couples political influence and media broadcasting, and cultural programming and has become one of Ghana's most divisive yet prominent media brands, especially in the Ashanti region.

Afenyo-Markin clashes with Sam George over shutdown

In a related development, YEN.com.gh also reported that Alexander Afenyo-Markin had raised questions about the NCA's decision to shut down Wontumi FM and Asaase Radio in Parliament.

The Minority Leader also expressed concerns about President John Mahama's decision to grant clemency to the 64 radio stations, prompting a response from Communications Minister Sam George.

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh