‘I was lamenting inability to attend Daddy Lumba’s vigil' - LilWin on ‘sabotage’ remark
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Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as LilWin, has spoken out following public criticism over remarks he made about the organisers of the late Daddy Lumba’s candlelight vigil.
The controversy began when the Creative Arts Agency (CAA) scheduled the tribute for Highlife legend Daddy Lumba at Black Star Square on 2 August 2025, the same date as the premiere of LilWin’s latest film, Ibrahim Traoré.
The actor-producer, visibly displeased, took to social media to express his frustration, accusing the agency of attempting to sabotage his movie premiere.
LilWin’s choice of the word “sabotage” drew a wave of backlash, with many Ghanaians condemning him for what they saw as an insensitive comment towards the memory of the beloved musician.
However, in an exclusive interview with Graphic Showbiz, LilWin clarified his stance, insisting that his concerns were not about his film’s commercial success but rather his inability to attend the vigil.
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He explained:
Honestly, it wasn’t about losing ticket sales because the movie premiere had already gained massive attention. Promotions were going well and everyone knew something big was on the way. Unfortunately, just a week before the premiere, we lost our legend, Daddy Lumba, which was a heartbreaking moment for all of us
To my surprise, his candlelight vigil was scheduled on the same day as my premiere. I believe many Ghanaians didn’t realise this until I pointed it out. I didn’t mention it because of my movie, but because I’m a huge fan of Daddy Lumba and I deeply admire him
I was torn between my premiere and the vigil of my idol, and people misunderstood me. I wasn’t angry because of my premiere, I was just hurt because I couldn’t be at the vigil. I wanted to pay my respects too
🚨ICYMI🇬🇭🎥🗣️: Ghanaian actor Lilwin says he’s disappointed in government via the CAA, for fixing Daddy Lumba’s candlelight vigil on the same day as his Ibrahim Traoré movie premiere.
— Ölele | Building OSN (@OleleSalvador) July 28, 2025
He shared his frustration in an interview with @akoma879fm.
🦅🇬🇭 https://t.co/y2Ej31L0bw pic.twitter.com/mt9rxJemE2
Despite the controversy, the premiere was a resounding success, drawing high-profile guests including Burkina Faso’s Ambassador to Ghana, David Kabre, with his military delegation, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene, and industry colleagues such as actress Vivian Jill and musician Kweku Flick.
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