A dispute between Wontumi Multimedia, a Kumasi-based radio station, and its former Head of Sports, Kennedy Amoako, has led to a legal demand for GH¢1.254 million. The station, owned by jailed NPP politician Chairman Wontumi, claims Amoako, popularly known as Fancy Di Maria, abruptly left despite a verbal agreement to work for five years. According to reports, Wontumi Multimedia's management had been informed that Amoako was considering an exit, but he denied any intention of leaving on two separate occasions.
Fancy Di Maria reportedly called the station's General Manager on 18 September 2026 to announce his departure, which he later confirmed publicly on social media. Two days later, he issued a farewell statement thanking Chairman Wontumi, management, and listeners for the opportunity to work at Wontumi TV/FM. The station's solicitors, Owusu Bempah Law Chambers, issued a demand notice on 22 September 2026, giving Amoako seven days to refund the GH¢1.254 million.
The demand notice states that Amoako had entered a verbal agreement with Wontumi Multimedia in January 2025 to head the station's sports programming. As part of the agreement, he received a GH¢1.2 million enticement and commitment fee, separate from his monthly salary, and a GH¢54,000 rent advance for his accommodation. Wontumi Multimedia describes such enticement arrangements as a standard industry practice tied to long-term staff commitments.
Fancy Di Maria had joined Wontumi Multimedia after King Eben's departure for Lawson Media, and his tenure at the station lasted approximately one year. The dispute highlights a common payment arrangement in Ghana's competitive broadcast industry, where stations pay presenters upfront "enticement" or "commitment" fees to secure them for multi-year contracts.
When a presenter exits before the agreed term, the station can seek to recover the money through legal demand, potentially leaving broadcasters exposed to significant financial claims if they change stations mid-contract. According to reports, Fancy Di Maria's solicitors have warned him that failure to settle the full GH¢1.254 million within the specified seven-day window will result in further legal proceedings.
It is unclear whether Fancy Di Maria has responded to the demand or where he plans to work next. The case has sparked interest in the Ghanaian broadcasting industry, with many following the developments. Wontumi Multimedia's demand for GH¢1.254 million from Fancy Di Maria has raised questions about the common practice of paying presenters upfront fees and the potential risks involved.
The outcome of this case may have implications for the industry, particularly in terms of how stations structure employment agreements and payment arrangements with their talent. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how it affects the broadcasting industry in Ghana.
Key points
- Wontumi Multimedia demands GH¢1.254 million from Fancy Di Maria for allegedly breaking a five-year employment commitment.
- The dispute highlights a common payment arrangement in Ghana's competitive broadcast industry, where stations pay presenters upfront "enticement" or "commitment" fees.
- The case has sparked interest in the Ghanaian broadcasting industry, with many following the developments and questioning the common practice of paying presenters upfront fees.
