The Kumasi Traditional Council has asked management of Kumasi-based radio station Oyerepa FM to halt its operations effective Friday August 26 until further notice.
Acting President of the Council Baffuor Amankwatia
VI, who also doubles as Bantamahene, announced this when a delegation from
Oyerepa FM and TV appeared before the Traditional Council to render an apology
over comments made by Akwasi Addai Odike
against Manhyia on their network.
Odike, who was a guest of a political show on
Oyerepa FM, lashed out at the traditional leaders in Ashanti Region for failing
to clamp down on illegal mining.
He accused the chiefs of engaging in galamsey
since they appear to be looking on unconcerned as water bodies and forests are
destroyed.
The businessman-cum-politician threatened to
stage a massive demonstration against Manhyia if the galamsey menace continues.
This comment angered the Traditional Council,
claiming it is a form of rebellion against the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu
II.
Baffuor Amankwatia VI stated: “You gave Odike
the platform to say all that he said without caution. If you want us to accept
your apology and show remorse, then announce to your listeners that you’ve
erred and apologize.
“Again, if you want Manhyia to give you
hearing, then you have to close down your radio station from Friday, August 26
until the pending issue is resolved. If not, we won’t take it lightly when you
appear before us again.”
By Ibrahim Abubakar