MUSIGA cautions musicians against promoting cybercrime in public statements

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has warned artistes against making public comments that could be interpreted as endorsing internet fraud and other cyber-related offences, urging them to use their influence responsibly.

The Union said musicians had the right to speak on national issues, including unemployment, corruption, governance and the administration of justice, but cautioned that such concerns should not be used to defend or encourage criminal activities.

In a statement signed by its President, Bessa Simons, MUSIGA said grievances against public institutions could not justify comments that appeared to glorify fraud, portray suspected offenders as heroes or discourage cooperation with lawful investigations.

The statement follows remarks by dancehall artiste Shatta Wale at ShattaFest in Accra on October 17, 2026, which sparked public debate over the influence of celebrities on young people.

During the event, the musician said he had built his wealth through music and rejected suggestions that he was involved in fraud. He also acknowledged having friends involved in fraudulent activities and said he would not report them.

He subsequently made comments in Pidgin English that critics interpreted as encouraging young people to engage in fraud.

MUSIGA expressed concern that such statements could influence young people negatively, stressing that internet fraud had serious consequences for victims, Ghana’s international reputation and legitimate digital businesses.

The Union urged musicians, particularly those with large youth followings, to avoid statements, performances and social media posts that could be seen as promoting or defending internet fraud, money laundering, romance scams, identity theft and other cybercrimes.

“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 said.

It added that using public platforms to excuse criminal conduct or undermine lawful enforcement efforts was irresponsible and inconsistent with the values of the music profession.

MUSIGA, however, acknowledged that concerns about selective justice, corruption, youth unemployment and accountability were legitimate issues that musicians could raise.

It stressed that artistes should pursue such concerns through constructive criticism without appearing to endorse unlawful conduct.

“However, criticism of injustice must never become a justification for crime,” the statement emphasised.

The Union called on musicians to use their platforms to promote lawful opportunities for young people, including employment, digital-skills training, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

It also encouraged artistes to speak out against corruption and fraud while helping young people identify productive and legitimate ways to earn a living.

MUSIGA further cautioned musicians that comments appearing to encourage criminal activity could expose them and their fans to legal, reputational and professional consequences.

“Every musician must remember that fame does not place them above the law, and artistic freedom does not include the freedom to encourage unlawful conduct,” the statement said.

The Union reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of musicians but said it would speak out when public statements threatened the credibility of the music industry or the wellbeing of Ghanaian youth.

It urged artistes to defend the reputation of the country’s creative industry and inspire young people to pursue success through lawful means.