Obaatanpa Radio Condemns Attack on Journalists, Demands Justice Over Assault and Shutdown

Obaatanpa Radio has strongly condemned what it describes as a violent attack on its premises, alleging that a group of individuals stormed the station, assaulted journalists and staff, disrupted live programming, and forcibly took the station off air.

In a statement issued on Thursday, June 25, the management of the station said the incident occurred shortly after discussions on its morning programme concerning internal matters within the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to the statement, the Awutu Senya East Municipal Chief Executive, Seth Serwonoo Banini, the Central Regional Chairman of the NDC, Dr. Richard Kofi Asiedu, and several other individuals arrived at the station following the broadcast.

Management alleged that the station’s Morning Show Host and Producer were verbally abused and physically assaulted during the confrontation, while other members of staff were intimidated as tensions escalated.

The statement further alleged that the group forcefully entered the studio while a live programme was in progress, switched off the station’s transmission equipment, ordered employees to vacate the premises, and subsequently locked up the facility, bringing all broadcasting activities to an abrupt halt.

Obaatanpa Radio described the incident as a serious attack on media freedom, press independence, and the safety of journalists carrying out their constitutional duty of informing the public.

“This violent invasion of our premises and the assault on our personnel represent an unacceptable attempt to silence the media and intimidate journalists,” the station stated.

Management disclosed that a formal complaint has been lodged with the Central East Regional Police Command and expressed appreciation to the Ghana Police Service for its swift response to the incident.

The station has called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation and ensure that every individual found culpable is brought to justice, regardless of their political affiliation or public office.

Obaatanpa Radio also announced its intention to release CCTV footage of the incident to support ongoing police investigations and provide the public with a clear account of what transpired.

Despite the disruption, management reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to professional, fair, balanced, and responsible journalism, stressing that the station would not be intimidated from carrying out its mandate of serving the public with credible and factual information.

The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the safety of journalists and media practitioners in Ghana, with renewed calls for stronger protection of press freedom and respect for the independence of the media.