“It is nonsense for private people to set up radio stations in Accra and be speaking Twi there.”

Lawrence Tetteh Criticises Use of Local Languages on Private Radio, Sparks National Debate

Renowned Ghanaian evangelist Lawrence Tetteh has sparked widespread public debate following controversial comments he made about private radio broadcasting in Ghana.
The remarks were made during an appearance on Okay FM, where he addressed what he described as declining standards within the country’s privately owned media space. His comments have since circulated widely across social media platforms, drawing mixed reactions from the public.
In a direct and strongly worded statement, Tetteh said, “It is nonsense for private people to set up radio stations in Accra and be speaking Twi there.”
According to the context of his submission on the programme, the preacher was reacting to what he perceives as:
A decline in professionalism in private broadcasting
The increasing dominance of local-language programming, particularly Twi
Concerns about content quality and ethical standards on radio
His remarks suggest a call for stricter adherence to broadcasting standards, especially within urban-based stations in cities like Accra.
Ghana’s media landscape is largely driven by private radio stations, many of which rely heavily on local languages to engage listeners and broaden accessibility. While some have interpreted Tetteh’s remarks as dismissive of Ghanaian culture and linguistic diversity, others argue that his concerns reflect a broader push for improved professionalism and content regulation.
The statement has generated significant backlash, with critics insisting that local-language broadcasting plays a vital role in promoting inclusivity, preserving culture, and reaching non-English-speaking audiences. Supporters, however, believe his comments highlight the need for higher broadcasting standards and structured programming.
This latest controversy adds to a series of outspoken interventions by Lawrence Tetteh on national issues, reinforcing his reputation as a bold and often polarising public voice.