Ayefele Reveals NBC, DSS Probed Him for Seven Years Before Granting Fresh FM Licence

Renowned gospel singer and broadcaster, Dr. Yinka Ayefele (MON), has revealed that he underwent a rigorous seven-year investigation by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) before being granted a licence to operate Fresh FM.

Speaking at a press conference held at the NUJ Press Centre, Ibadan, to flag off activities marking Fresh FM’s 10th anniversary, Ayefele recounted how the DSS investigated his background extensively, visiting his parents, schools, and church.

“The NBC investigated me for seven years. The DSS even questioned my family and school. If others faced such scrutiny, many wouldn’t own stations today,” he said.

Ayefele, who began his career as a jingle producer at Radio Nigeria in the late 1980s, recalled how a 1997 car accident that left him confined to a wheelchair reshaped his life and career path.

“After my accident on December 12, 1997, I became more determined to succeed. That incident pushed me toward broadcasting and gospel music,” he said.

He revealed that after starting online radio, he purchased a transmitter in London, but NBC and DSS officials raided his premises shortly afterward. With the help of notable figures such as Ranti Akerele, Baba Sanya Oyinsan, and the intervention of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, his licence was finally approved in April 2015.

According to him, the station’s 10th anniversary celebration was deliberately fixed for October 10, 2025, themed “10-10-10 with 10 Musicians.” The anniversary events will include a carnival, medical outreach, raffle draws featuring a furnished bungalow and cars, and a grand finale at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre.

Ayefele noted proudly that in the station’s 10-year history, he had never dismissed any staff. “I don’t sack people. I only advise them to resign to protect their CVs,” he joked.

Reflecting on the 2018 demolition of his Music House by the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s administration, Ayefele said, “It was painful, but it turned out to be a blessing. It brought global recognition, I was invited by the BBC and CNN afterward.”

He also praised Governor Seyi Makinde, describing him as a longtime friend and reiterating his apolitical stance.

Representing the NBC, Alhaja Koro congratulated Ayefele on the milestone, describing Fresh FM as “a tree we planted that has grown into many branches.”

Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, media adviser to Governor Makinde, lauded Ayefele’s resilience and vision, while the station’s General Manager, Alhaji Abolade Salami, described the journey as one of hard work, innovation, and loyal listener support.

Fresh FM’s 10th anniversary celebration runs from October 23 through December 2, 2025, with a lineup of community events, entertainment, and charity programmes across Ibadan.