NYA Boss Osman Ayariga Condemns Media Attacks, Warns Rabble-Rousers Amid Ablekuma North Chaos

By Joylinda Laryea / July 11, 2025

Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has called for calm and urged young people to remain vigilant and not allow themselves to be cheated during electoral processes. His comments come in the wake of violent clashes during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun on Friday, July 11, 2025.

Speaking on the incident, Mr. Ayariga strongly condemned the attacks on media personnel, applauding the Ghana Police Service for the swift arrest and interdiction of an officer involved in the assault of a journalist.

“I firmly stand against any form of violence against journalists. The media must be free to operate without fear or intimidation, and I commend the police for taking swift action in this matter,” Ayariga stated.

While advocating for peace, Ayariga also issued a firm warning, noting that any individuals who seek to incite chaos will be “met head-on and dealt with accordingly.”

“We want peace, but let me be clear: anyone who becomes a rabble-rouser will face the consequences,” he warned.

Touching on the reported assault on former Fisheries Minister and NPP stalwart, Hawa Koomson, Ayariga offered a controversial take, referencing her history in past violent incidents.

“We all know the history about Hawa Koomson and how she attacks people. If there’s been any altercation between her and some people, I’m sure they were defending themselves,” he said.

His remarks have sparked further debate as tensions remain high following the violent disruptions at polling centres in the Ablekuma North constituency. The rerun was intended to resolve a months-long parliamentary stalemate but has instead drawn attention to ongoing concerns about electoral violence and political accountability.