In a surprising turn of events, Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lilwin, has publicly criticized the government and the Creative Arts Agency (CAA) for scheduling a candlelight vigil for the late highlife legend Daddy Lumba on August 2, 2025, the same day as the premiere of his much-anticipated movie, Ibrahim Traoré: The Last African Hero.
The vigil, organized to honor Charles Kwadwo Fosu, known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 60, will take place at Independence Square in Accra. Lilwin, in a Facebook Live session on July 28, expressed frustration, calling the scheduling “unfair” and “inconsiderate,” as the date for his movie premiere had been widely publicized. He argued that the clash could undermine the turnout for his film, which focuses on Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré, a figure symbolizing anti-imperialist reform in Africa.
Lilwin Sparks Controversy Over Daddy Lumba Vigil Clash with Ibrahim Traoré Movie Premiere
Lilwin’s comments took a controversial turn when he suggested, in an interview with Kumasi-based Luv FM, that the government should “free prisoners” to attend Daddy Lumba’s vigil, comparing the late musician’s cultural impact to that of global icon Michael Jackson. This statement has drawn significant backlash on social media, with some netizens labeling it insensitive, especially given the nation’s mourning period for a beloved cultural figure.
Critics argue that Lilwin’s remarks trivialize the solemnity of the vigil and the loss felt by Ghanaians. However, supporters of the actor contend that his frustration is valid, noting that the CAA’s decision to schedule the vigil on the same day as his premiere appears to disregard the promotional efforts and financial investment behind his film. They highlight that Lilwin had set the premiere date before Daddy Lumba’s passing, suggesting the agency could have chosen an alternative date.
The controversy has also reignited discussions about Lilwin’s choice to produce a movie about Ibrahim Traoré instead of a project celebrating Daddy Lumba. YouTuber Kwadwo Sheldon recently criticized Lilwin for prioritizing a foreign leader over a Ghanaian icon, prompting a heated response from the actor. In a TikTok video, Lilwin insulted Sheldon, questioning why the content creator didn’t produce a Daddy Lumba film himself. He defended his project, emphasizing that movie production follows a sequential process and that future projects could focus on Ghanaian legends like Lumba.
The Ibrahim Traoré biopic, directed by Jackson K. Bentum, has already sparked debate for its political undertones, portraying Traoré’s rise as Burkina Faso’s leader and his push for national sovereignty. Lilwin’s supporters argue that the film addresses important African leadership themes, while critics question its relevance amidst national mourning.
The public response to this scheduling conflict reflects broader tensions within Ghana’s entertainment industry, where competition for visibility and resources often leads to public disputes. The CAA has not yet responded to Lilwin’s allegations of resentment or his call to redirect support toward embattled rapper Okomfo Kwadee instead of focusing solely on the vigil. Meanwhile, the Ibrahim Traoré movie premiere is set to proceed at Semehyia Golden Mall in the Ashanti Region, with Lilwin planning a separate vigil for Daddy Lumba in the region afterward.
The clash has divided opinions, with some fans praising Lilwin’s boldness in addressing the issue, while others urge him to show more respect for Daddy Lumba’s legacy during this sensitive time. Social media platforms, particularly X, are abuzz with debates about whether the vigil’s timing was intentional or an unfortunate oversight.
As Ghana mourns the loss of Daddy Lumba, whose music dominated charts and inspired generations, the controversy surrounding Lilwin’s remarks underscores the challenges of balancing personal projects with collective grief. Fans and industry stakeholders are left questioning how the entertainment community can honor its legends while supporting new creative endeavors.
