Veteran film producer Socrate Safo left the United Showbiz programme following a heated argument with entertainment pundit A Plus over alleged fund distribution to film producers in the country.
The argument intensified when A Plus insulted Socrate with offensive remarks, comparing his intellect to that of a chicken’s clitoris.
Socrate took great offense to the comment and insisted on an apology from A Plus before continuing with the show.
Despite MzGee’s attempts to mediate, Socrate’s demand remained unfulfilled. In explaining his departure, Socrate stated,
“What prompted me to say ‘shut up’? While presenting my point, I maintain respect for the producers, you, and our audience. With utmost respect, I choose to leave to allow the show’s continuation. My punctuality is often late, but my participation is out of respect for you all. Consider how my children would feel watching this.”
MzGee acknowledged Socrate’s departure, saying, “Regrettably, Socrate has vacated the studio, unable to proceed with the conversation. Efforts by the producers to reconcile the matter are ongoing.”
Earlier, Socrate had refuted actress Christiana Awuni’s claim that the NPP administration failed to disburse funds, asserting that the National Film Authority (NFA) did provide money to some producers.
Socrate clarified that certain producers received a sum of 80,000 euros.However, Ola Michael interjected, stating that the funds came from a grant from an international source rather than the government.
A Plus, another panelist on the program, accused Socrate of spreading false information, which sparked a heated altercation between them.Socrate made a controversial remark, saying, “Assessing the creative arts sector’s impact, you didn’t receive any funds because you’re not producers. Verify with the NFA regarding their support for producers; some received 80,000 euros.”
Questioning the truthfulness of his statement, he added, “Am I lying? The funds are grants from overseas, facilitated by whom if not the NFA? My friend, leave.”
After Ola Michael refuted Socrate’s claim, A Plus retorted in Twi, accusing Socrate of deceit. “You attempted to lie and were caught. You’ve been caught regarding the NFA’s alleged 80,000 euro distribution to producers. You’re dishonest. Who are you to order me away?
“Feel free to depart. Don’t feign irritation. I must correct him; such behavior won’t be tolerated again. Don’t address us as if we’re your children; I’m more educated than you. What are you capable of?”
Meanwhile, the NFA has yet to clarify if the funds given to producers originated from the government or an international entity.