The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has issued a statement calling on musicians to refrain from making public remarks that could be seen as encouraging or glorifying online fraud and other cyber‑related offences. The Union’s President, Bessa Simons, signed the notice, which stresses that while artists have the right to critique governance, unemployment, corruption and the justice system, such critiques must not be used to justify criminal conduct.
The warning follows comments made by Shatta Wale during ShattaFest in Accra on 17 October 2026, where he suggested that young people should engage in fraud. Wale said, in Pidgin English, that he had “plenty fraud boys” as friends and that the country was “no good” so if one goes fraud, that is acceptable. The remarks sparked widespread debate about the influence of popular musicians on youth.
MUSIGA noted that online fraud causes real harm to victims, tarnishes Ghana’s international reputation, threatens legitimate digital businesses and endangers the future of young people. The Union urged artists, especially those with large followings, to avoid statements, performances and social‑media posts that could be construed as promoting or defending internet fraud, money laundering, romance scams, identity theft and other forms of cybercrime.
“Musicians must understand that their words carry weight. A stage, concert platform, interview, or social‑media account is not a private space; it is a powerful channel of public influence,” the statement added. It also warned that using such platforms to excuse criminal conduct or attack lawful enforcement actions was irresponsible and inconsistent with the values of the music profession.
While acknowledging legitimate concerns about selective justice, corruption, youth unemployment and accountability, MUSIGA insisted that criticism of public institutions must not become a justification for crime. The Union called on artists to channel their influence toward advocating employment opportunities, supporting digital‑skills training, promoting financial literacy and entrepreneurship, and speaking out against corruption and fraud.
MUSIGA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of musicians but warned that it would not remain silent when public statements by members threatened the credibility of the profession and the safety of Ghanaian youth. The Union urged musicians to use their platforms responsibly, defend the dignity of Ghana’s creative industry and inspire young people to pursue success through lawful and productive means.
