By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Popular Ghanaian actor and comedian Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known as Lil Win, has responded to public criticism surrounding his upcoming film project titled “Ibrahim Traoré The Last African Hero.” In a recently released press statement from Wezzy Empire Film Productions, the actor strongly defends his artistic decision to spotlight the story of the Burkinabé military leader, urging audiences to embrace the right of Africans to tell diverse stories whether controversial or not.
The statement, issued by Wezzy Empire’s Public Relations Officer Bossu Kule, acknowledges the debate generated by the announcement of the film, particularly concerns that Lil Win, known primarily for comedy, is unfit to deliver a narrative rooted in politics and military history. “That is exactly the mindset we must move away from,” the release states. “The fact that he is a comedian does not disqualify him from telling serious stories.”
According to the statement, critics including actor Nana Ziega have argued that Lil Win should focus on Ghanaian heroes and stories, rather than international figures like Ibrahim Traoré, whom Ziega controversially labelled a terrorist. Lil Win’s team, however, sees this perspective as limiting and counterproductive to the broader Pan-African vision they hope to promote.
“History, whether controversial or heroic, is still history,” the statement argues, citing acclaimed global films like Hotel Rwanda and The Last King of Scotland as examples of how cinema can explore even the most difficult topics. The release makes it clear that telling African stories from African perspectives is essential not to glorify controversial figures, but to “own our own narrative.”
The statement goes on to emphasize that Lil Win is not presenting himself as a political commentator or a historian, but as an entertainer engaging in artistic expression. Comparisons are drawn to actors like Sacha Baron Cohen and Taika Waititi, who have portrayed dictators in satirical films without facing the same level of backlash.
“This project is not about money or fame or to disregard anyone’s profession or influence,” the release clarifies. “It’s about uplifting, educating, and raising awareness.”
The PR team urges critics and the general public to wait until the full film is released before passing judgment. They call for open-mindedness and respect for the creative process, emphasizing the role of African filmmakers in reclaiming their stories.
Lil Win’s bold decision to take on such a politically charged subject has sparked important conversations around representation, storytelling, and freedom of artistic expression in Africa. Whether “Ibrahim Traoré The Last African Hero” becomes a celebrated cinematic milestone or a controversial lightning rod, one thing is clear: Lil Win has already succeeded in making us talk, think, and question who gets to tell Africa’s stories and how.
