The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has said it will be working with Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) to find “appropriate solutions” to the Shatta Wale-Stonebwoy beef that led to an altercation at Saturday’s Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
The ministry in a statement condemned the confusion that marred the music awards show.
“Without prejudice to an inquiry by the relevant law enforcement agencies, the Minister, Barbara Oteng-Gyasi, who was in the audience and witnessed the pandemonium will engage the Organizers, Charterhouse, and the Musicians Union to find appropriate solutions to the matter within the shortest possible time,” the statement said.
The Ministry also said it will “work with the organisers and all stakeholders to streamline processes to ensure the safety and security of the public during such events.”
The confusion occurred when Stonebwoy was called up the stage to receive the award for the ‘Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year.’
Though it was not clear what triggered the fight, Stonebwoy was seen drawing out a gun before walking off stage. The altercation led to cut in the live broadcast for several minutes. Stonebwoy has since apologized to Ghanaians and Charterhouse, organizers of the awards event.
Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale were also detained by the Accra Police Command and spent the night in police custody as investigations into the disturbance commenced.
Find below the full statement
STATEMENT BY MINISTRY OF TOURISM, ARTS AND CULTURE ON VGMA INCIDENT
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture strongly condemns the altercation that broke out, during the 20th Edition of the VGMA in Accra.
Without prejudice to an inquiry by the relevant law enforcement agencies, the Minister, Hon. Barbara Oteng-Gyasi, who was in the audience and witnessed the pandemonium will engage the Organizers, Charterhouse, and the Musicians Union to find appropriate solutions to the matter within the shortest possible time.
The Ministry notes that the VGMAs has over its 20 years existence become a flagship event in the Music Industry and should not be undermined by such incidents especially at this time when Government is committed to the further development of the Industry to take its rightful place in the Transformation Agenda of H. E the President.
The Ministry will work with the organisers and all stakeholders to streamline processes to ensure the safety and security of the public during such events.
We also urge the Creative Arts fraternity and the Media to remain calm and be circumspect in their commentary on the issues to forestall any further escalation.
Congratulations to nominees and award winners for an otherwise apt celebration.
