Richard Kobby Wolley, a prominent social media strategist, artist manager, content creator, and digital marketing expert, has articulated that musician Kofi Kinaata transcends the role of a mere artist, embodying an institution, a movement, and a symbol within the musical landscape.
This assertion arises in the wake of recent discussions on social media, where certain media personalities have publicly criticized Kofi Kinaata for his failure to secure specific awards at the recent Ghana Music Awards.
In a detailed Facebook post, Richard provided a narrative about Sekondi-Takoradi, or simply Takoradi.
He characterized Takoradi as a unique city where its inhabitants possess an inherent confidence in their intelligence, often fostering an environment where innovative ideas may be met with skepticism.
The sentiment in Takoradi is such that one must be prepared for rigorous debate when engaging with opinions that differ from the prevailing narratives.
Wolley emphasized that there are certain individuals whose names merit respect and careful consideration. He cited Kofi Kinaata as one such individual whose status is fortified by a dedicated and passionate fan base.
These individuals, referred to as "lions," exhibit fierce loyalty and do not easily accept criticism, even if it is constructive.
They defend Kinaata steadfastly, often questioning the intentions of those who dare to critique him.
Richard noted that some individuals who initially engaged as observers have faced backlash for their honest assessments.
Upon expressing their views constructively, these individuals found themselves ostracized and labeled as detractors.
Consequently, they transitioned from supportive watchers to what the community refers to as "witches."
Wolley poignantly observed that the present dynamics in Takoradi reflect this cycle: the lions remain vocally protective of Kofi Kinaata, while the witches, wounded by prior experiences, now approach discussions with caution.
The observers, in turn, often choose silence to avoid engendering conflict.
He concluded with a piece of prudent advice: in conversations concerning Kofi Kinaata, individuals who do not identify as either lions or witches may find it advisable to remain non-verbal, offering nods and smiles rather than engaging in potentially contentious dialogue.
This silence, far from indicating weakness, can represent a form of wisdom. In the context of Takoradi, such discretion may ultimately protect individuals from conflicts they did not intend to initiate.
Read his post below;
“Let me tell you a story about a land called Sekondi-Takoradi — or simply, Takoradi.
Now, Takoradi is no ordinary place. It’s a city where everyone believes they’re intelligent. Everyone walks like they’ve got it all figured out. In Takoradi, you can’t show anyone something new — because they already believe they know. If you want to go toe-to-toe with the big dogs, be ready. Because here, everyone believes they’re a big dog.
There’s something I’ve come to understand — and I share it often:
In this town, there are certain names you don’t speak on carelessly.
Not because you’re scared — but because you’ve chosen peace.
One of those names is Kofi Kinaata.
He is not just a musician. He’s an institution. A movement. A symbol.
And with that status comes a powerful, loyal fanbase — people who will defend him with everything they’ve got.
We call them lions.
Lions don’t entertain criticism — even when it’s constructive. If you dare to suggest something could’ve been done better, they roar. They circle you. They ask, “Who are you to speak on the chosen one?”
But here’s the truth:
Some people didn’t start out as critics. They started as watchers.
They observed with love. They cheered silently. They offered suggestions out of genuine care.
But something happened.
The lions attacked them.
They were bruised for speaking. Labeled for trying. Silenced for caring.
And so, over time, they became what the town now calls witches.
Here’s the real story:
The reason witches act the way they do… is because the lions attacked them when they were watchers.
They were once neutral. Supportive. Hopeful.
But after being hurt for their honesty, they now carry a different tone.
Not because they hate… but because they were hurt when they loved.
So today, Takoradi finds itself in a cycle.
The lions are loud.
The witches are wounded.
And the watchers? They stay silent, afraid to speak, afraid to be dragged.
And people like me?
We still love Kofi Kinaata to bits.
But sometimes we see small things — things that could be better.
And yet, we hesitate to speak. Because here, good intentions can get you crucified.
So let me share this advice:
If you ever find yourself in a conversation about Kofi Kinaata, and you know you’re neither a lion nor a witch — just nod. Smile. And move on.
Because sometimes, silence is not weakness.
It’s wisdom.
And in a place like Takoradi, that silence could save you from battles you never meant to fight.”
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