Akwaboah Jnr warns social media fuels youth disrespect for elders in Ghana

Award-winning Ghanaian highlife singer and producer, Gladstorm Kwabena Akwaboah Jnr., popularly known as Akwaboah Jnr, has expressed grave concern over what he describes as a growing culture of disrespect among the youth — a trend he believes is being amplified by the influence of social media.

In a recent post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, May 23, the celebrated musician lamented the erosion of societal values, particularly the reverence traditionally accorded to the elderly in Ghanaian society. Writing in Twi, Akwaboah stated, “Social media Nti akwadaa mbu panin,” which translates to “Because of social media, children disrespect the elderly.”

While the exact motivation behind the post remains unclear, it follows closely on the heels of an incident earlier this month in which Akwaboah Jnr faced online trolling after sharing a heartfelt message and photo with his wife, Theresa Akwaboah, to commemorate their first wedding anniversary.

On May 3, the “I Do Love You” hitmaker posted an affectionate message on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Happy Anniversary to Us Boo. Moreee blessings on Our way!!!” The accompanying photo, which captured the couple smiling warmly together, was intended as a simple celebration of love and partnership. However, it drew a wave of unsolicited comments, with several users mocking Akwaboah’s appearance. Some claimed marriage had visibly aged him, while his wife looked even more youthful and radiant, they remarked.

The comments, many of which bordered on personal attacks, sparked outrage among some fans who defended the singer and criticised the growing culture of impunity and disrespect prevalent on digital platforms.

Akwaboah’s reaction signals a broader concern about the evolving role of social media in shaping interpersonal behaviour, particularly among younger users. “There was a time when children would never speak harshly to elders, let alone publicly insult them,” one cultural commentator noted. “But social media has created a space where anonymity and virality often embolden people to abandon basic decency.”

Akwaboah Jnr, known for his soulful lyrics and deep-rooted appreciation for Ghanaian culture, is the son of the late highlife legend Akwaboah Snr., and has long been an advocate for preserving the values that have defined generations. His post, though brief, reignites an important national conversation about digital etiquette, youth conduct, and the place of traditional values in an increasingly online world. As Ghana continues to grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by digital media, Akwaboah’s words serve as a timely reminder of the need for civility, respect, and cultural consciousness — both online and off.