Popular gospel musician and broadcaster, Dr. Yinka Ayefele (MON), has opened up about the long and intense scrutiny he faced from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) before he was granted a licence for his radio station, Fresh FM.

Speaking at a press conference held on Wednesday at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, to flag off activities marking the 10th anniversary of Fresh FM Ibadan, Ayefele revealed that the NBC subjected him to a seven-year investigation.

“The NBC investigated me for seven years. The DSS even went to my parents, my schools, and my church to ask questions about me. If licence seekers today face that kind of scrutiny, many wouldn’t own radio stations,” Ayefele said.

Ayefele, who began his career as a jingle producer at Radio Nigeria in the late ’80s, recounted how a car accident in 1997 left him confined to a wheelchair but strengthened his resolve to pursue media and music excellence.

He said, “I was one of the best jingle producers then. I used the money I made to buy a Beetle. But I had a ghastly accident on December 12, 1997, while heading to Abeokuta. It changed my life completely.”

Despite his condition, he ventured into online radio, building a large following that inspired him to start a terrestrial station. However, his dream hit a wall when, shortly after purchasing a transmitter in London, he was raided by NBC and DSS officials.

“I didn’t even know I needed a licence. It was Ranti Akerele, former Ondo Information Commissioner, who bought the licence form for me. Baba Sanya Oyinsan, a retired zonal director at Radio Nigeria, also pushed the process. The licence was eventually approved in April 2015, after the intervention of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan,” he said.

Although the license was issued in April, Ayefele said the 10th anniversary was deliberately scheduled for October 10, 2025, symbolising “10-10-10 with 10 musicians.”

The anniversary will span several days, featuring carnival tours, medical outreach, a raffle draw with prizes including a furnished bungalow, cars, and landed properties. It will climax with a grand finale at the University of Ibadan’s International Conference Centre.

The Fresh FM boss revealed that, in the station’s 10-year history, he had never sacked a staff member.
“I don’t sack. I only advise people to resign to protect their CVs,” he said, drawing laughter from journalists at the event.

Ayefele also touched on the controversial 2018 demolition of his Music House by the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

“It was painful, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It gave Fresh FM global attention, and I was invited by BBC and CNN afterwards,” he said.

Ayefele praised Governor Seyi Makinde, stating their friendship existed long before he became governor.
“He is still my friend, and I remain apolitical. What matters to me is content and professionalism,” he said.
He also acknowledged the roles played by President Jonathan and Patience Jonathan in securing his licence, which was signed alongside 17 others.

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

“We expect more stations in the East, North, and other parts of the country. Dr. Ayefele is a seasoned broadcaster with a clear vision,” she said.

Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the Media Adviser to the Governor Seyi Makinde, described Ayefele as “a talent manager whose doggedness and vision have kept the station relevant and growing.”

In his welcome address, Alhaji Abolade Salami, General Manager of Fresh FM, said the journey began modestly but has evolved into a broadcasting powerhouse in the Southwest.

“We inaugurated the planning committee in April 2025. We promised pomp, and we are delivering it. This celebration reflects our growth and the support of our loyal listeners,” Salami stated.

Fresh FM @10 celebration line-up as follows: Oct 23: Italawa Carnival Tour (Ibadan); Oct 24: Jumat Service and Asun/Suya Night; Oct 26: Thanksgiving Service (Christ Revival Miracle Center); Oct 27: Endowment Day and UCH Visit; Oct 29: Raffle Draw (Liberty Stadium) – Bungalow, cars, bikes, electronics; Oct 30: Medical Outreach; Oct 31: Novelty Match (Lekan Salami Stadium); and the grand finale on December 2 will feature performances by 10 A-list musicians.