By Dickson Boadi Entertainment Commentary | Africa Live News
The controversy surrounding Nigerian streamer Carter Efe and Ghanaian dancehall star Stonebwoy has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Ghanaians questioning the comments made about one of the country’s most celebrated musicians.
But one question deserves to be asked: What gives Carter Efe the right to disrespect Stonebwoy?
Stonebwoy is not just another musician. He is an internationally recognised Ghanaian artiste who has worked hard to build his brand, earn respect and put Ghana on the global music map. His achievements and contribution to the music industry should not be taken lightly.
Carter Efe’s recent visit to Ghana took an unexpected turn following comments about Stonebwoy that many fans considered disrespectful. The situation attracted even more attention after claims emerged about what Made in Ghana allegedly told the Nigerian streamer concerning Stonebwoy’s physical condition and walking style.
If those claims are accurate, then Made in Ghana also has some explaining to do.
As a Ghanaian content creator who was involved in Carter Efe’s visit, he should have understood the need to draw the line. Hosting a foreign personality, creating entertaining content and building social media engagement should never come at the expense of disrespecting a Ghanaian personality.
Made in Ghana should have immediately challenged Carter Efe and made it clear that such comments were unacceptable. He should have demanded that the Nigerian streamer withdraw his remarks and apologise to Stonebwoy.
Sometimes, silence can send the wrong message, particularly when someone has the opportunity to correct a situation but chooses not to.
There is a popular Akan proverb that says, “Aboa bi be ka wo a, ofiri wo ntoma mu.” The saying reminds us that sometimes the people closest to us can become the source of our problems.
This incident should serve as a lesson to Ghanaian content creators. There is absolutely nothing wrong with welcoming Nigerian entertainers, collaborating with them and building relationships across the African entertainment industry. However, such relationships should be built on mutual respect.
Stonebwoy has faced his own challenges, including the accident that affected his leg. His physical condition should never become a subject of ridicule or entertainment. Nobody chooses to go through such an experience, and it should not be used to diminish another person’s achievements.
Interestingly, Nigerian music superstar Davido was also reported to have advised Carter Efe to apologise to Stonebwoy following the backlash. Carter Efe subsequently issued an apology.
That development should make us reflect. If a Nigerian superstar can recognise the importance of showing respect to a Ghanaian artiste, why should a Ghanaian content creator fail to demand the same standard?
This is not about Ghana versus Nigeria. Both countries share a strong entertainment relationship, and there is every reason to encourage more collaborations between their creative industries. But friendship and collaboration must never be an excuse for disrespect.
Our musicians have worked hard to earn recognition beyond Ghana’s borders. They deserve support and respect, especially from those who have the opportunity to promote and celebrate their achievements.
Made in Ghana should have stood his ground and told Carter Efe that the comments were unacceptable. More importantly, he should have insisted on a retraction.
We must learn to promote our own, defend the dignity of our entertainment industry and speak up when situations like this arise.
After all, welcoming visitors is part of our hospitality, but allowing anyone to disrespect our people should never be part of the arrangement.
Stonebwoy deserves respect. Every Ghanaian artiste deserves the same.
Africa Live News | Entertainment Commentary
