Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lilwin, has moved to clear the air after a storm of backlash over comments he made about the timing of Highlife legend Daddy Lumba’s candlelight vigil coinciding with his movie premiere.
The Creative Arts Agency staged the tribute at Black Star Square on August 2, 2025, the very day Lilwin debuted his latest film, Ibrahim Traoré, in Kumasi. The actor’s initial claim that the date clash was “sabotage” triggered widespread criticism, with many accusing him of placing personal interests above paying respects to one of Ghana’s most celebrated musicians.
Speaking to Graphic Showbiz, Lilwin insisted that his remarks were misunderstood. His real disappointment, he said, was not about losing attention or ticket sales but about missing the chance to stand among those honouring a man he revered.
“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,” he explained.
As the debate grew louder, some online detractors pushed wild allegations, accusing him of “ritual sacrifices” to guarantee the film’s success, claims Lilwin described as deeply painful but ultimately motivating.
“The accusations hurt me very much, but they made me stronger because anytime I listened to Daddy Lumba’s Yentie Obiaa, I was motivated to remain focused. I went on with the premiere and it was successful.”
That premiere drew an audience of dignitaries, including Burkina Faso’s Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. David Kabré, accompanied by a military delegation. Other guests included Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene, actors Vivian Jill, Dr Likee, Kyekyeku, Kweku Flick, and a number of business leaders.
The night’s most memorable moment came when H.E. Kabré presented Lilwin with the Best Actor in Africa award.
“I truly appreciate the honour and I was overjoyed because creating a movie about a country’s leader and he is so pleased that he sends his ambassador and military personnel to honour me, means a lot. That moment was priceless.
“Captain Ibrahim Traoré truly inspires me. I deeply appreciate him for the recognition and all the support he has given me,” Lilwin further stated.
