“I Refused to Be Bought” — Lilwin Snubs $20,000 to Drop His Ibrahim Traoré Biopic

Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah “Lilwin” has revealed a brazen attempt to bribe him into abandoning his upcoming film about Burkina Faso’s transitional leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. In a video posted to social media, Lilwin recounted how an individual claiming to represent Burkinabé interests arrived on set with an envelope containing $20,000—and instructions to halt production immediately.

Rather than pocket the cash, Lilwin says he handed it straight back. “They wanted to buy our silence,” he declared, “but this story is bigger than any sum of money.” The proposed biopic, still in its early stages, explores Captain Traoré’s rise from grassroots soldier to symbol of youthful resistance—an arc Lilwin believes resonates far beyond Burkina Faso’s borders.

Rejecting what he called an act of intimidation, Lilwin emphasized his deep respect for Burkinabé people and the revolutionary values Traoré embodies. “This film honors their struggle,” he said. “It’s not about politics or profit—it’s about celebrating African leadership and inspiring a new generation.”

News of the attempted payoff has ignited heated conversation online around artistic freedom and the influence of power in storytelling. Rather than deter him, the incident has steeled Lilwin’s resolve. He insists the project will move forward on its own terms, serving as both a tribute to Captain Traoré’s vision and a testament to the filmmaker’s refusal to compromise his creative integrity.