Fik Gaza
Social media is currently filled with the news of the arrest of rising artiste Shafick Dangote popularly known as Fik Gaza who is currently detained in Saudi Arabia.
The circumstances surrounding his arrest are not yet clear but what we have so far learned is that the Gaza Empire Crew boss was hired by a group of Ugandans living in the desert country to perform at a house party something that is said to be illegal.
Some sources have also revealed that Gaza jetted into that country as a visitor and had no other credentials like a work permit that would allow him to perform in the country legally. There is also a video clip currently circulating on different social media platforms in which the ‘Banana’ singer is seen calling out for help from a place that looks like a detention facility.
“Help me my people, the authorities on this side are very tough,” Fik Gaza who seemed puzzled and frustrated called for help.
“The Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) condemns the arrest of Ugandan dancehall musician Fik Gaza in Saudi Arabia. Mr Gaza, a valued member of our association, was reportedly arrested on Tuesday of this week over alleged visa irregularities and dress code violations,” a document from UMA reads.
The document further states that the association is concerned about Fik Gaza’s well-being and urges the Saudi authorities to swiftly resolve this matter and ensure his safe return home.
They also call upon the Ugandan government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to take immediate steps to intervene.
“We urge them to engage the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda and the Permanent Mission to the organization of Islamic Cooperation in Riyadh to secure Mr Gaza’s release.”
Because Gaza is a member of the association, they stand in solidarity with him and his family during the difficult time and urge all relevant authorities to work collaboratively to secure his safe return.
Different people including prominent artistes have started making efforts to ensure that Gaza is released and among them is musician turned-politician Bobi Wine. Bobi Wine who is currently in the UK wrote about Gaza’s situation via his socials saying;
“I’ve learnt of the detention of this brother and artiste Fik Gaza in Saudi Arabia- something that has happened to so many African and indeed Ugandan artistes in the past. Although details are still scanty, our teams both here and in Saudi Arabia are trying to establish the facts so that we collectively assist him out of this situation.”
Relatedly, entertainment critic Edward Ssendikadiwa alias Eddie Ssendi has cautioned Ugandan artistes to always consult first with some knowledgeable people before moving out of the Country to perform to avoid any inconveniences they might encounter while in foreign Countries.
“I feel for him and I can understand what he is going through. He is someone who has just made a breakthrough so he accepts money from whoever brings an offer to him. I wish he had consulted someone like the Leone Island boss,” advised Ssendi.
Emphasizing further, “Our musicians should learn to consult first before going to those countries.”
Don’t want to miss out on any story? For updates on all Sqoop stories, follow this link on Telegram: https://t.me/Sqoop
