GIBA rallies behind NCA over closure of Ob TV, 8 others

The Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association [GIBA] has offered its support for the clamp down on cable television channels broadcasting in the country without the appropriate licence.

GIBA explained it does not condone piracy in the broadcasting industry hence its decision to support the National Communication Authority in the exercise which saw nine channels stopped from televising programmes Wednesday.

According to the NCA, the nine channels - Obinim TV, ATV, Clive TV, ECN, Zoe TV, BTA, Care TV, Kessben TV, and Elijah TV- violated Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act 2008, Act 775.

It requires anyone intending to operate a broadcasting system or a broadcasting service to acquire a frequency authorisation from the NCA before such venture.

Commenting on the issue on Onua 95.1FM, President of GIBA, Akwasi Agyeman, Mr. Agyeman underscored the need for all broadcasting laws to be adhered to, adding “we urged the NCA to ensure that every one adhere to the authorizations”

He refuted reports that Obinim TV was taken off-air as a result of the recent condemnable utterances of the eccentric owner, Pastor Daniel Obinim.

There have been reports linking the shutdown of the television station to the actions and comments of Pastor Obinim some of which were in direct attack of some pastors and individuals.

But Mr Agyemang said those reports are unfounded, noting that the shutdown has nothing to do with Pastor Obinim except the failure to satisfy the licencing requirements of the NCA.