Obour is one of the finest brains the music industry has ever produced, but because of our Pull-Him-Down (PHD) syndrome, he left without turning back.

He served two terms as President of MUSIGA, and we all witnessed how visible and vibrant the union became under his leadership. One of his major priorities was taking care of aged musicians, and his Amwef initiative was a testament for all to see.

Through his hard work, he attracted many sponsors and brought every sitting President to his annual Grand Ball. Donations from individuals and organisations were channelled to support this cause.

In 2012, MUSIGA submitted a proposal to the government for funding to conduct in-depth research into the music industry. The government approved and released GH₵2 million. After receiving the funds, MUSIGA carried out the initiatives outlined in the proposal. However, some industry players felt the money should have been shared among musicians and industry organisations.

Even though an audit was conducted and all government subvention funds were fully accounted for to the Ministry of Finance, some individuals in the creative industry chose to vilify Obour. This persisted even after an independent audit at MUSIGA found no wrongdoing.

We decided to make Obour the alpha and omega of all the problems in the industry. Even when he coughed, the industry held its breath, just to choke him from breathing.

Yes, we gave Obour a bad name just to hang him. A few aggrieved individuals succeeded in dragging many uninformed people along to crucify him. Still, he served his full term until Bessa succeeded him after an election marred by court cases, which were eventually resolved in Bessa’s favour, allowing him to serve peacefully.

Obour left to pursue politics, and strangely, the industry followed him there, campaigning against him. When he lost, some bitter industry players, who were not even from his constituency, jubilated. It was obvious the hatred was personal.

Since the industry failed to recognise his brilliance, politicians saw his intelligence and competence and appointed him Managing Director of Ghana Post. We all witnessed how he revitalised what was almost an outdated and dying institution with his energy and vision.

Due to the Pull-Him-Down (PHD) syndrome within the music and broader creative arts industry, it has become difficult for industry players to return after leaving, and this does not augur well for the growth of the industry.

Ironically, those who vilified him have, to date, added nothing meaningful to the industry. It is clear that their actions were driven by hatred for a young, brilliant, and hardworking man.

Today, MUSIGA donates GH₵500 at the one-week celebration of a veteran like Yaw Sarpong, and its President must go on a radio tour to explain that it was not a cash donation but a contribution of bottled water.

I will not compare Bessa’s regime to Obour’s, but I know the kind of influence Obour wielded to make big things happen. Sadly, the same industry has made it impossible to approach him today, even though he is now in a better position to assist.

Yes, today he walks the corridors of power, and his influence should reflect in our industry. However, our bad-mouthing has made that impossible. Industry gatekeepers must swallow their pride and approach him for direction and support.

MUSIGA’s constitution turns past Presidents into patrons, yet our bad-mouthing has driven the likes of Sidiku Buari and Bice Obour Kuffour far from the industry. This does not help the industry in any way.

It is my prayer that Generation Z and Generation Alpha will learn from the mistakes of Millennials, so they do not repeat these destructive patterns. May they build a selfless and vibrant music industry, rather than receive GH₵500 donations at their funerals when they are gone.

Obour left, but the problems of the industry never left. The blame game continues.

Time has indeed vindicated Obour—who was not just an industry leader, but also a successful, award-winning musician.

I believe he is at peace now, far removed from our noise and nonsense as an industry. This Pull-Him-Down syndrome must stop.

Author:

Enoch Agyapong