The Creative Arts industry in Ghana is once again at the center of public discourse after the mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Hon. Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi widely known as “King Zuba” sparked widespread outrage with comments questioning the priority of the ongoing Creative Arts School project in Kumasi.
In a recent interview on Oyerepa FM, the mayor described the incomplete facility, a flagship initiative launched under the previous NPP administration as “not necessarily a priority” and urged Ghanaians to “be serious in this country.” He reportedly suggested that the project could be repurposed into a more “impactful” specialized training college rather than remaining dedicated solely to creative arts.
The remarks triggered immediate backlash across radio, television, and social media platforms. Many industry stakeholders, creatives, and citizens viewed the statement as dismissive of the creative economy a sector increasingly recognized as a major driver of employment, tourism, cultural export, and youth empowerment in Ghana.
In a surprising turn, popular media personality, entertainment figure and lecturer Bnoskka (appearing on Adom FM’s Entertainment Hall, hosted by Mike 2) took the unusual step of issuing a public, unsolicited apology on behalf of the mayor despite not having consulted him beforehand.
Speaking emotionally on air, Bnoskka urged the public and the creative fraternity to exercise patience. “Let’s give the young Mayor some time. He will come and officially apologize. He’s a young man. The youth love him for his hard work and dedication in the Kumasi metropolis. He’s a talented media personality, music producer, and entrepreneur with exceptional passion for the creative arts industry. Let’s give him time to reflect and come back with a proper statement.”
Bnoskka’s gesture framed the mayor’s comments as potentially youthful exuberance rather than malice, emphasizing King Zuba’s overall track record and affection among many young people in Kumasi.
Despite the growing calls for a retraction or apology from various quarters, King Zuba has reportedly stood by his original position. He has clarified that the views expressed were his “personal opinion” and do not represent the official stance of the government, the NDC party, or his office as Metropolitan Chief Executive.
Appointed by President John Dramani Mahama and confirmed in April 2025, the mayor has focused heavily on urban renewal including aggressive cleaning of the Central Business District, enforcement against sanitation breaches, and major redevelopment plans for historic markets such as Kejetia and Krofrom.
The episode has reignited debate about:
– The perceived value placed on arts education and infrastructure
– Government commitment to the Orange Economy
– How public officials communicate about legacy projects across political administrations
– The role of creatives in shaping national development priorities
While some defend the mayor’s call for pragmatism and fiscal responsibility, others argue that downplaying a dedicated Creative Arts School sends a damaging signal about the long-term importance of Ghana’s cultural and entertainment industries.
For now, the creative community awaits whether King Zuba will offer his own clarification or whether Bnoskka’s heartfelt but unofficial apology will stand as the closest thing to reconciliation the public has received so far.
Watch the video of What Bnoskka said on Adom Entertainment Hall from below.
