Ghanaian dancehall star Shatta Wale has lost a high-profile case at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, where he alleged that Ghana’s Gaming Commission unfairly discriminated against him.
Here are the highlights:
1. The case was dismissed for lack of merit
On May 8, 2025, the ECOWAS Court ruled that Shatta Wale’s claims had no legal standing and failed to prove any violation of his rights.
2. No evidence of a real endorsement deal
Though Shatta Wale alleged he was blocked from a betting endorsement, he did not present any documents, emails, or verbal testimony to confirm an actual agreement or negotiation.
3. No proof of discrimination
The artist claimed Ghana’s Guideline VII, which prevents celebrities from endorsing betting brands, was enforced unfairly against him. But he could not show that other celebrities were treated more favorably, weakening his claim.
4. Mystery betting company was never named
Crucially, Shatta Wale didn’t identify the betting company at the center of the controversy. The Court stressed that it couldn’t properly assess the case without knowing all the parties involved.
5. Court accepted the case… but still dismissed it
Though the application was admissible and the Court had jurisdiction, it was ultimately tossed out for being unsubstantiated.
6. Judges who decided the case
The ruling was delivered by Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves (presiding), Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, and Justice Dupe Atoki, who were unanimous in their decision.
In the end, the case served as a reminder: claims without solid evidence won’t hold up—even in international court.
