A former Dundee man caught up in a bizarre onstage clash at a music awards ceremony has said the incident should not detract from celebrating the work of Ghanian musicians.
Iain Walker, the UK’s high commissioner to Ghana, presented the award for best gospel artists of the year to Diana Hamilton at the Ghana Music Awards in Accra on Saturday.
The ceremony was disrupted by an onstage clash between the entourages of two reggae musicians.
The fight erupted after Stonebwoy was named dancehall reggae artist of the year.
His musical rival Shatta Wale, accompanied by his entourage, then took to the stage, prompting a brawl between the two groups.
Footage of the incident online appears to show Stonebwoy holding a gun.
Both men were later arrested by police with Stonebwoy claiming he had pulled out the weapon in self-defence.
It is understood another person was arrested for using pepper spray.
Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale are both popular musicians in Ghana with fans regularly arguing over who is best.
Mr Walker, who was educated at Hillside Primary School and Harris Academy, said the incident should not detract from the successes of Ghanian musicians.
He posted on Twitter: “Music is a powerful tool for promoting Ghana’s rich culture, talent and growing reputation.
“Last night’s incident detracted from celebrating Ghana Music excellent and work of many.
“Ayekoo (congratulations) to all awards winners and organisers for their hard work.”
Music is a powerful tool for promoting Ghana’s rich culture, talent & growing ? reputation; was great to join such talents #VGMA
Last night’s incident detracted from celebrating Ghana Music excellence & work of many
Ayekoo to all awards Winners & organisers for their hard work
— Iain Walker ???????? (@walkeriain) May 19, 2019
The Dundee University graduate was appointed High Commissioner to Ghana in 2017 and is midway through his four-year posting.
In August this year Mr Walker, 42, is planning to cycle 800km through Ghana to raise funds for a hospital burns unit.
