Sarkodie Sues Ecobank Ghana Over Use of Lookalike in Ad Campaign
Award-winning Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie has taken legal action against Ecobank Ghana, accusing the financial institution of violating his intellectual property and image rights. The lawsuit filed on March 25, 2025, alleges that the bank used a lookalike of the artist in a marketing campaign—misleading the public into believing he had endorsed their services.
According to legal documents Sarkodie who currently serves as a brand ambassador for First Bank, a direct competitor of Ecobank, considers the move not just misleading but professionally damaging. His legal team argues that the unauthorised use of his likeness—whether through a lookalike or implied endorsement—undermines his credibility and existing contractual obligations.
Using a lookalike of a public figure—especially one with competing endorsements—crosses ethical lines, said Sarkodie’s legal representatives. This wasn’t just misleading; it risked damaging our client’s professional credibility and created confusion in the minds of consumers.
The rapper is seeking a perpetual injunction to bar Ecobank from using any imagery, content, or individuals that may imply an association with him. Additionally, he is demanding monetary compensation for what he describes as the unauthorised commercial exploitation of his image.
The development has stirred debate in both the entertainment and marketing circles, raising serious concerns about ethical advertising practices and respect for celebrity branding rights in Ghana’s competitive corporate landscape.
Sarkodie, known for his business acumen and brand discipline, has remained silent publicly on the case, choosing instead to let the legal process unfold. However, fans and branding experts have expressed support, pointing to the importance of protecting one’s public image in an era where lookalikes and viral content can blur the lines of endorsement.
Ecobank Ghana, the largest financial institution in the country by asset valuation, has not yet issued an official statement regarding the lawsuit.
As the case proceeds, it is expected to set a precedent for how brands approach celebrity likeness, especially in marketing campaigns involving influencers, artists, and public figures who have exclusive endorsement deals.