Ghanaian rap icon, Michael Owusu Addo, known widely as Sarkodie, has ignited a firestorm of controversy after sharing a video on his X (formerly Twitter) account. The video depicted a man, visibly struggling with mental health challenges, dancing energetically to Sarkodie’s hit song. “Azonto,” in the middle of a street. While the man’s enthusiastic rendition of the song initially seemed to capture a moment of uninhibited joy, it has instead sparked widespread criticism and backslash directed at the celebrated musician. 
The video showed the man, seemingly lost in the rhythm and lyrics of “Azonto,” dancing and rapping along, drawing the attention of passerby. Sarkodie, upon encountering the video online, shared it on his social media platform, presumably intending to highlights the universal appeal of his music. However, the reception was far from positive.
Many Ghanaians have expressed deep disappointment and anger over Sarkodie’s decision to share the video. Critics argue that the post exploited the man’s vulnerable state for entertainment, showing a lack of sensitivity and respect for individuals facing mental health challenges. The online reaction has been swift and severe, with numerous social media users accusing Sarkodie of being insensitive and irresponsible.
The core of the criticism lies in the perceived exploitation of a person who may not fully comprehend the situation or the consequences of being filmed and shared online. Many believe that highlighting the man’s condition for social media engagement is ethically problematic and potentially harmful.
The incident has reignited discussions about the treatment of mentally challenged individuals in Ghana and the responsibilities of public figures in addressing such issues. Critics are calling for greater awareness and empathy towards those struggling with mental health, and demanding that celebrities use their platforms to promote understanding and support rather than perpetuate potentially exploitative content.
This controversy has undoubtedly tarnished Sarkodie’s public image, forcing him to confront the ethical implications of his social media activity. The backlash underscores the importance of considering the context and potential impact of shared content, especially when it involves vulnerable individuals. It serves as a stark reminder that even well-intentioned posts can lead to unintended negative consequences, particularly in an age of widespread social media scrutiny.
Source: https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/280616-outrage-sarkodie-shares-video-mentally-challenged-man-dancing-popular-azonto-song/