Ghanaian fashion designer Elikem Kumordzie, popularly known as ‘ElikemTheTailor’, has sparked massive reactions on social media after claiming that he inspired Mattew Agambire, the designer behind President John Dramani Mahama's stunning outfit at his inauguration.
As praise poured in for President John Dramani Mahama's outfit during the inauguration ceremony, the spotlight was also cast on Mattew Agambire, CEO of Bondaana, who designed the outfit.
Mathew Agambire, the young fashion designer and the president's official stylist, was lauded for his exceptional piece of work, which incorporated Kente, Adinkra symbols, and conveyed a powerful message from the president’s outfit.
Amidst the attention, Elikem Kumordzie took to Instagram to claim that he was the first to introduce that particular style.
He stated that he had designed a similar outfit in 2018, implying that Agambire either copied or was inspired by his work.
Elikem shared a picture grid of his own designs alongside Mahama's inauguration outfit, with the caption:
"I can understand why everyone thought I made @officialjdmahama's outfit that day; my phone was going off. Even with the Adinkra symbols and all. But no, it wasn’t me (in Shaggy’s voice). I’m just happy to have inspired. Congratulations again to HE @officialjdmahama. Well deserved, sir," he said.
In another post, Elikem shared a picture of a similar design he created for a couple in 2019, which included a touch of Kente fabric.
"Flash Back Friday with our couple from 2019," he added.
However, Elikem’s post has since sparked a flurry of criticism on social media.
Some users have labelled his post unnecessary, while others have accused him of being jealous and creating unhealthy competition and tension in the industry.
See the posts below:
Watch the moment John Mahama arrived for his investiture as President of Ghana
JHM/EB
