MUSIGA warns musicians against glorifying online fraud

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has cautioned musicians against making public statements that could be interpreted as encouraging or glorifying online fraud and other cyber-related crimes.

In a statement signed by its President, Bessa Simons, MUSIGA said it respected musicians’ right to express opinions on governance, unemployment, corruption and the administration of justice, but stressed that such concerns should not be used to justify criminal conduct.

“While MUSIGA respects every musician’s right to express opinions on governance, unemployment, corruption, and the fair administration of justice, we state emphatically that no grievance against public institutions justifies statements that may appear to normalize fraud, portray suspected offenders as heroes, or discourage cooperation with lawful investigations,” the statement said.

The Union’s statement follows comments Shatta Wale made during ShattaFest in Accra on 17 October 2026, which suggested that he was encouraging young people to engage in fraud.

“Me I do my music for over 25 years. I buy Rolls Royce, I buy Lamborghini all from my music. Then somebody go go talk somebody say Shatta Wale he dey do fraud.

“Make I tell you today. I get plenty fraud boys who be my friends but me I no be snitch wey I go snitch anybody. The country no good so if you go fraud, fraud,” he said in Pidgin English.

Shatta Wale’s comments have since generated widespread discussion, with some critics expressing concern that his influence could negatively affect society, particularly young people.

MUSIGA warned that online fraud causes real harm to victims, damages Ghana’s international reputation, threatens legitimate digital businesses and endangers the future of young people.

It therefore urged musicians, particularly those with large followings and influence among young people, 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.

The Union said using such platforms to excuse criminal conduct, attack lawful enforcement actions or indirectly encourage fraudulent activities was irresponsible and inconsistent with the values of the music profession.

However, MUSIGA acknowledged that concerns about selective justice, corruption, youth unemployment and accountability were legitimate national issues that musicians had every right to raise.

It maintained that criticism of public institutions and demands for justice should be pursued constructively without appearing to endorse unlawful behaviour.

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

The Union called on artistes to channel their influence towards addressing the challenges confronting young people by advocating employment opportunities, supporting digital-skills training, promoting financial literacy and entrepreneurship, and speaking out against corruption and fraud.

It urged the music industry to contribute to solutions that would help young people pursue lawful and productive livelihoods rather than expose themselves to criminal activities.

MUSIGA also cautioned musicians against making statements that could expose them or their fans to legal, reputational or 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 warned that it would not remain silent when public statements by members threatened the credibility of the profession and the safety of Ghanaian youth.

It called on 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.