Awal Mohammed (L) described fans of Shatta Wale (R) as ‘junkies’ during a live TV show
A member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Communications Team, Awal Mohammed, has apologised to fans of dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, popularly known as the Shatta Movement, following backlash over comments he made about them.
Awal Mohammed came under heavy criticism on social media after remarks he made on JoyNews on January 20, 2026.
During a discussion on what he described as the government’s “stringent” bail conditions, he inadvertently referred to a section of Shatta Wale’s fans who had gathered at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) during the artiste’s detention as “junkies.”
Responding to the backlash in a Facebook post on January 21, 2026, the NPP communicator clarified that the comment was a slip of the tongue.
“I appeared on JoyNews yesterday for the morning show. During the debate, while condemning the government’s stringent bail conditions, I inadvertently referred to a section of Shatta Wale supporters as ‘junkies.’
“I want to clarify that I didn’t intend to insult or belittle anyone. The term was unnecessary, and I’m truly sorry for any offence caused. I respect the passion of fans and acknowledge that my choice of words was wrong. It was totally out of sync with my character. I sincerely apologise and hope we can move forward positively,” he wrote.
Shatta Wale, in a separate statement, cautioned against what he described as the continuous undermining of his brand and the fans who support his work.
The dancehall artiste noted that his influence goes beyond entertainment, highlighting his role in youth empowerment, job creation, and global representation.
He also urged media practitioners and public figures to end selective criticism and treat all voices with fairness and respect.
“For years, I have served as a voice for the youth. My influence goes beyond music to job creation, inspiration, and representing Ghana globally. This deserves respect,” Shatta Wale said.
He added, “Enough. This is bigger than music. This is about respect, fairness, and national maturity. If we truly want to move forward as a country, then the selective criticism, coded insults, and subtle disrespect towards certain voices must end, from media houses to boardrooms, from talk shows to political spaces.”
Meanwhile watch GhanaWeb’s exclusive interview with Ghanaian musician/comedian David Oscar Dogbe
AK/MA
