Medikal accused of copyright infringement by Alabaster Box over “Akwaaba” sample
Ghanaian rapper Samuel Adu Frimpong, widely known as Medikal, has found himself embroiled in a copyright dispute following allegations from music group Alabaster Box, who claim he sampled their signature song “Akwabaa” without authorization.
According to the group, Medikal’s recently released single, “Welcome to Africa,” features elements lifted from “Akwaaba”—specifically within the first ten seconds of the track—without seeking or receiving the necessary permissions.
These allegations were formally presented in a writ of summons dated April 8, 2025, and signed by Sustineri Attorneys, legal counsel for Alabaster Box. The document asserts that the sampled segment constitutes a direct infringement on the group’s intellectual property rights.
In response to what they term as unauthorized usage, Alabaster Box is demanding the immediate removal of “Welcome to Africa” from all digital and traditional distribution channels, including streaming platforms and online stores.
Beyond pulling the track, the group is also requesting a comprehensive financial disclosure. They are seeking detailed documentation of all revenues generated from the song’s release, including income from its distribution, marketing efforts, promotional activities, and any live performances in which it was featured.
“In light of the circumstances, we hold our client’s firm instructions to demand the following forthwith, which we hereby do,” the writ states. “The withdrawal of the infringing song from distribution and circulation on all traditional and digital platforms; the cessation of any public performance, direct marketing, and/or sale of the infringing song; the termination of all existing agreements related to the production, promotion, distribution, and sale of the song; the submission of copies of such contracts; and confirmation of notification of their termination to us.”
The writ further calls for clarity on the extent of the song’s dissemination and demands accountability for how the infringing material has been shared.
“We further demand the provision of a detailed account of all revenue accrued through the song’s use and exploitation,” the document continues. “Additionally, specify in writing the identities of all individuals or entities in possession of the infringing material and outline steps being taken to retrieve such copies.”
Alabaster Box has cautioned that failure to comply with these demands will trigger immediate legal action. The group’s legal team has outlined several punitive measures Medikal could face if he fails to meet the conditions set forth in the writ.
“In the event of refusal or disregard of our clients’ demands,” the document warns, “be advised that we are instructed to pursue legal redress. This includes but is not limited to: seeking an injunction to halt all further distribution, marketing, and performance of the infringing song; requesting the destruction and deletion of all existing copies; and filing claims for damages resulting from the infringement.”
Moreover, the group is pursuing exemplary damages, alleging the infringement was willful and deliberate. They are also demanding full reimbursement of all legal fees and costs incurred as a result of the case.
