Unifest Organizers Explain Black Sherif’s Delayed Performance and Fan Outcry

Organizers of the recent Unifest concert at the Takoradi Mall Event Center have addressed the controversy surrounding Black Sherif’s delayed performance on June 22, 2025, which led to frustrated fans pelting the artist with water. Event promoters have cited two main reasons for the hold-up: a last-minute demand for increased payment and dissatisfaction with the stage setup.

Black Sherif became a trending topic on social media after videos circulated showing concert-goers expressing their anger over his late appearance. Now, the organizers are sharing their side of the story.

Payment Dispute Alleged by Organizers

According to Mutombo, one of the Unifest organizers, Black Sherif’s management initially agreed to a performance fee of GH¢300,000. However, just an hour before his scheduled performance, they reportedly demanded an additional GH¢50,000.

“We paid this guy GH¢300,000, and he refused to mount the stage,” Mutombo explained in an interview. “They were asking for an extra GH¢50,000, and for about an hour, they kept deliberating on this extra money.” This last-minute demand, according to organizers, significantly contributed to the delay.

Stage Setup Concerns Raised by Artist’s Team

Adding another layer to the explanation, organizer YB spoke on YFM, revealing that Black Sherif’s team also raised concerns about the stage setup. They reportedly claimed it did not meet their required standards.

“They have their standard, and the stage didn’t meet it. They made several complaints,” YB stated. He acknowledged that production details were not explicitly included in the contract, but despite this, the management was reportedly “not satisfied with the setup.”

The combination of these two issues – the alleged payment dispute and the concerns over stage quality – ultimately led to the significant delay that sparked the audience’s frustrated reaction. The incident highlights the complexities that can arise between artists and event organizers, especially when last-minute changes or demands are introduced.