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Hon. Habib Iddrisu Under Fire for Disparaging Ghana’s Movie Industry

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The Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDGG) has taken umbrage with Hon. Habib Iddrisu, the First Deputy Minority Whip of Ghana’s Parliament, over his remarks suggesting that the movie industry is not a serious profession.

During the vetting of Hon. John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture designate, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Hon. Iddrisu advised Dumelo to be serious, implying that his background in the movie industry was not a serious pursuit.

The FDGG has swiftly condemned Hon. Iddrisu’s statement, labeling it “reckless” and “unfortunate.” In a strongly-worded statement, the guild emphasized that the movie industry is a significant contributor to Ghana’s economy, generating revenue and creating jobs.

Globally, the culture and creative industry generates $2.25 trillion annually, contributing 3% to the global GDP, and employing 30 million people, according to UNESCO’s 2021 report. In Ghana, the movie industry plays a crucial role in job creation, tourism, and foreign exchange earnings.

The FDGG has demanded a retraction of Hon. Iddrisu’s statement and an unqualified apology for his “disrespectful and reckless” comments. The guild’s National President, Richard Yaw Boateng, and Director of Communications, Francis Ayaga, expressed disappointment in Hon. Iddrisu’s lack of understanding of the movie industry’s significance.

This development has sparked outrage within Ghana’s movie industry, with many calling for Hon. Iddrisu to educate himself on the sector’s contributions to the economy. George Quaye, a renowned industry expert, has also expressed disappointment in Hon. Dumelo’s response to Hon. Iddrisu’s comment, calling for more assertive advocacy for the industry ¹.

As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Hon. Iddrisu will retract his statement and apologize to the movie industry. One thing is certain, however: the FDGG will continue to champion the interests of Ghana’s movie industry, ensuring that its contributions to the economy are recognized and respected.

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EOCO: Shatta Wale Failed to Provide Proof of Lamborghini Ownership

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The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed that Ghanaian dancehall star Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., popularly known as Shatta Wale, was interrogated in connection with a 2019 Lamborghini Urus tied to a $4 million fraud case in the United States.

The luxury vehicle, flagged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), was seized in Ghana after being traced to the musician. Investigators say Shatta Wale failed to produce receipts or transfer documents proving ownership of the car, instead citing a seller identified only as “ZAK” on WhatsApp.

Following his questioning, Shatta Wale was granted bail of GHS 10 million with two sureties.

His public relations officer, Samuel Atuobi Baah (Sammy Flex), has since dismissed media speculation that the matter involves money laundering. According to him, the case is strictly related to tax obligations on the vehicle.

“Our legal team is engaging the authorities to resolve this issue. Shatta Wale remains committed to clearing his name,” Sammy Flex assured in a press statement.

The development adds another twist to the ongoing probe, which has drawn international attention due to its links with U.S. law enforcement.

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Shirley Frimpong-Manso makes her Debut at TIFF 2025 with STITCHES

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Renowned Ghanaian filmmaker Shirley Frimpong-Manso

Renowned Ghanaian filmmaker Shirley Frimpong-Manso is set to make her prestigious debut at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025 with her much-anticipated Nollywood feature, Stitches.

The film, produced by Chris Odeh under BRS Studios, marks a significant milestone in her illustrious career and expands her footprint into the Nigerian film space.

Speaking about the project, Shirley revealed that the story of Stitches left an indelible mark on her:

“I spent over a month in Lagos working on my first Nollywood film, and the experience was unforgettable. The story offered me refuge on my hardest days, a world of love, loss, family, and judgment that felt achingly familiar yet refreshingly new.”

On the film’s official selection at TIFF, she expressed her gratitude to BRS Studios for entrusting her with the project, adding that she is excited about the opportunities it opens for future collaborations.

“I’m thankful to BRS Studios for trusting me with this beautiful film. This recognition at TIFF fuels my drive, and I’m eagerly looking forward to more exciting and challenging projects from around the world.”

With Stitches, Shirley Frimpong-Manso not only bridges Ghanaian and Nigerian cinema but also reinforces her standing as one of Africa’s most versatile and visionary directors. Her TIFF debut signals yet another step forward for African storytelling on the global stage.

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It will take 12 years to Produce another Male Gospel Star” – Veteran Producer John Mensah Sarpong Laments Industry Decline

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One of Ghana’s most respected gospel music producers, Mr. John Mensah Sarpong, has expressed concern over the future of male gospel musicians in Ghana. In an exclusive interview with Kpdonline.net, the JMS Music Productions CEO predicted that it could take up to 12 years to produce another male gospel superstar like Joe Mettle, Ernest Opoku, Kweku Gyasi, etc

According to Mr. Sarpong, the downfall is largely due to selfishness among current male gospel artists, whose disregard for producers and executive investors has discouraged meaningful investment in the industry. He lamented that respected producers such as Big Ben and he have now diverted into other ventures, including selling mobile phones, due to the lack of return and appreciation from musicians.

He warned that unless these artists change their ways and adopt a more respectful, collaborative attitude, the industry risks stagnation. Mr. Sarpong concluded with a prophetic caution: “The saying shall come to pass if they do not play safe.”

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