The University of Ghana is buzzing with conversation as Univers Entertainment brought a heated legal and cultural debate to campus, centred around Ghanaian rap heavyweight Sarkodie and his lawsuit against Ecobank Ghana.
The award-winning artist has filed legal action against the bank, alleging the unauthorised use of a striking lookalike in a recent anti-fraud campaign. The controversial ad, which featured the tagline “Looks can be deceiving,” was designed to warn customers about financial scams. But instead, it’s drawn accusations of misrepresentation and sparked a broader conversation around intellectual property, consent, and ethics in branding.
Sarkodie is demanding damages, a perpetual injunction, and the immediate removal of all associated materials from circulation. According to legal documents shared online, Ecobank has eight days to respond—or risk the case proceeding without their input.
“Is That Sarkodie?”
The image at the heart of the controversy features a young man who many say bears an uncanny resemblance to the Adonai hitmaker. Sarkodie’s legal team argues that the bank’s use of the image misleadingly implies his endorsement of the campaign and infringes on his image rights. While some defend the ad as a creative choice, others insist the resemblance was too deliberate to be dismissed as mere coincidence.
Univers Entertainment took this controversy to the University of Ghana campus, where it ignited passionate discussions among students from all backgrounds.
“I feel like they should have gone to him and asked for permission because he’s the main person here,” said a Level 100 student. “Someone is mimicking him. They should’ve gotten permission before doing whatever they wanted. I think there’s a lot wrong with that.” One level 100 female student said.
A psychology student weighed in: “You can’t just use someone’s image for something. He’s not even the one. If it were really him and he accepted, that’s different. But here’s the case—he’s even an ambassador for another bank.” another level 100 female student said.
A political science student echoed that sentiment: “Before you use someone’s identity to do anything, you need to seek their consent. Sarkodie hasn’t gone overboard. He did the right thing.” One male level 100 student emphasized.
A Legal and Cultural Moment
As Sarkodie and Ecobank gear up for what could be a landmark court case, students are already treating it as a teachable moment. The case has sparked deep reflections on how brands interact with public figures, how artistes can protect their images, and where the line lies between inspiration and exploitation.
So what’s next?
Will Sarkodie’s lawsuit reshape how Ghanaian celebrities safeguard their image rights? Or will Ecobank successfully defend its campaign under the banner of creative expression?
One thing is certain: this isn’t just a court case—it’s a cultural flashpoint.
Story by: Maxwell Danquah_univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by: Kelvin B. Annor-Yeboah
