Togo : Conii Gangster, from vulgar singer to anti-obscenity ambassador !
In a surprising turnaround, Conii Gangster, formerly known for explicit content in his songs, has been appointed as an ambassador in the fight against obscene music in Togo. This event, which occurred on the afternoon of January 8, 2023, marks an unexpected resolution to the dispute between the artist and the Togolese Music Federation. Conii Gangster, renowned for songs like « Lomégno » « Schoolvi, » « Evivina, » « Akossiwa, » etc., has now committed to no longer promote vulgarity.
Following his apologies in a video last weekend, the artist has decided to comply with the law against obscene music dating back to June 2023. He signed a code of conduct in the presence of the Minister of Culture, the chairman of the monitoring and censorship committee, and the president of the Togolese Music Federation (FTM).
During the ceremony, Conii Gangster, also known as Kossiwa bé chéri, acknowledged the difficulties faced in recent months, including the withdrawal of his nomination for the Heroes 228 awards. He apologized to women and children for his lyrics and pledged to adhere to moral and ethical standards by avoiding the creation, recording, or promotion of songs with obscene content.
The code of conduct includes several commitments, such as respecting moral and ethical standards, promoting cultural diversity, encouraging personal development, social responsibility, respecting freedom of expression, protecting children and vulnerable audiences, as well as engaging in dialogue with the public and media.
By signing this code, Conii Gangster reaffirms his commitment to combat songs with obscene content and promote responsible, inspiring, and respectful music. Beyond renouncing vulgarity in his songs, the artist even becomes an ambassador for the Ministry of Culture to fight against songs with obscene content and to guide his peers towards moralization.
Togo’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Kossi Lamadokou, praised the artist’s awareness and decision to comply with the law. He emphasized that the Togolese state, under the leadership of Faure Gnassingbé, remains committed to maintaining respectful cultural standards and warned diaspora artists who continue to disseminate obscene songs on Togolese platforms.
