The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has demanded an immediate retraction and apology from Radio XYZ over what it describes as false claims that the Minister for Sports and Recreation allocated World Cup slots to members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a statement dated February 20, 2026, the Ministry rejected assertions made during a broadcast on Radio XYZ that the Minister, Kofi Iddie Adams, had allocated 100 World Cup slots with visas issued to NPP members.
“We wish to clarify that this statement is entirely false, misleading, and malicious,” the Ministry stated.
It further stressed that it “has not approved, authorized, or implemented any framework or plan involving government-sponsored fan participation for the 2026 World Cup,” adding that “no decision has been made regarding the allocation of such slots or visas to any group.”
The Ministry warned that the claim has the potential to generate “unwarranted disaffection within the sports sector and among the public.”
As a result, it has formally requested that the management and host of Radio XYZ retract the statement and issue a formal apology within 12 hours of receiving the notice.
“We respectfully request that the management and host of Radio XYZ retract the statement and issue a formal apology within 12 hours,” the statement noted, adding that “the correction should be given appropriate prominence in the same manner and reach as the original broadcast.”
While acknowledging the station’s contributions to sports development, the Ministry emphasized the need for responsible journalism.
“Verification of such critical information prior to dissemination is essential to prevent the spread of falsehoods,” it said.
The statement, signed by Bagbara Tanko, Head of PR and Communications for the Minister, was copied to all media houses.
