Ghanaian journalist Christiana Awuni has spoken out after making comments about legendary musician Daddy Lumba’s personal life that drew criticism online. Awuni insists that members of Lumba’s family allowed people outside the household to talk negatively about the singer, and this, she said, opened the door for unnecessary public controversy.
Awuni was responding to backlash after she discussed private matters involving Daddy Lumba on radio. According to her, the public reaction was intense because family members had themselves brought certain issues into the open and allowed them to gain traction on social media and in public circles. She said that when insiders share what should remain private, it gives “outsiders licence to drag your name in the mud.”
The journalist added that celebrities and public figures often struggle to keep personal matters out of public debate once close associates or family members share details with others. She stressed that even when intentions are good, revealing too much can lead to misinterpretation or exploitation by people who do not have the best interests of the person involved.
Awuni also commented on society’s response to public figures, noting that Ghanaians are very quick to judge entertainers, especially when private issues are leaked or discussed publicly. She said that while the audience has the right to form opinions, there should also be respect for privacy and restraint in how far personal matters are used for public entertainment.
Her remarks come amid an ongoing conversation about the responsibility of media personnel and family members when handling sensitive information about well-known personalities. Awuni emphasised that she did not intend to harm Daddy Lumba’s reputation, but rather wanted to highlight how public opinion can be shaped when private matters are not handled carefully.
Some members of the public have supported Awuni’s view, saying that family disputes often should be resolved within the home rather than aired publicly where they can be distorted. Others believe that media must exercise caution and avoid making personal claims about individuals without solid evidence.
The situation has renewed discussions about media ethics, respect for public figures’ privacy, and the role family members play in shaping public perceptions of celebrities. Many commentators say that both families and journalists should be more mindful of how personal stories are shared to prevent misinformation and unnecessary reputational harm.
