19/02/2025
COURT RULING: Alpha Radio CEO Fined GH¢20,000
In a recent ruling, the Kumasi High Court 7 dismissed a defamation case filed by Mohammed Ridwan, CEO of Alpha Radio, against Yussif Abdul Ganiyu Inshola, General Manager of Zuria FM 88.7, and the radio station itself.
The court, in its ruling on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, found insufficient evidence to support Ridwa's claims of defamation against Yussif Abdul Ganiyu Inshola and Zuria FM. Consequently, the court awarded a cost of GH¢20,000 to be paid by Mohammed Ridwan to Yussif Abdul Ganiyu Inshola and Zuria FM.
The case, which lasted for three years, stemmed from allegations made by Ridwan that Inshola had made defamatory comments about him on air. Specifically, Ridwan claimed that Inshola had stated that "some people are stealing in the name of God, they take money in the name of God and later appropriate it to themselves. These people are thieves." Ridwan alleged that Inshola was referring to him in these comments.
However, in his ruling, the judge noted that Ridwanu had claimed that several prominent individuals, including chiefs, imams, and well-meaning people, had called him to express their concerns about Inshola's alleged comments. Ridwan also alleged that RIDWAN had appropriated a radio station that belonged to the community for his own personal gain.
Despite these claims, the judge observed that Ridwan had failed to produce a single witness to corroborate his allegations. The judge stated that Ridwan had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support his claims of defamation, and therefore, the case was dismissed and cautioned
In a statement, Inshola expressed relief and gratitude at the court's decision. "We are pleased that the court has dismissed this frivolous case," he said. "We have always maintained that our comments were fair and truthful, and we are glad that the court has vindicated us."
The ruling is seen as a significant victory for press freedom and the right to free speech in Ghana. It is also a reminder that individuals and organizations must be careful not to abuse the legal system by filing frivolous lawsuits.
Zuria FM 88.7 , Commercial Radio based in Kumasi, is known for its news, sports, entertainment, and African music programming. The station has a large following in the Zongo community and is widely respected for its commitment to quality journalism.
Alpha Radio Community Radio , on the other hand, is a local radio station based in Kwabre outside Kumasi that is known for its lively discussions ,debate, Christian Gospel and Radio church services .
The case has sparked widespread interest and debate in the Media and among the Zongo community . Many have taken to social media to express their opinions on the ruling, with some praising the court for its decision and others criticizing Ridwan for filing the lawsuit in the first place.
As the dust settles on this high-profile case, one thing is clear: the court's decision is a significant victory for press freedom and the right to free speech in Ghana.
