Freetown, 16th July 2025 — Black Leo Entertainment has publicly clarified its position regarding the ongoing legal battle involving Sierra Leonean artist Famous, and two of its members, Mohamed H. Kargbo, popularly known as Meldenero, and Amadu Sesay.
The case, which has sparked considerable public interest, had at one point sought to implicate Sierra Leone’s Entertainment Ambassador, Kao Denero — a move the company says has now been firmly put to rest.
In a press statement issued on Monday, Black Leo’s management noted, “Following a thorough review of all presented evidence, it became clear that there were no grounds to bring charges against Ambassador Kao Denero. As such, all allegations directed at him were officially dropped.”
The management further explained that while the legal process against Meldenero and Amadu continues, both men have been fully cooperative.
“They have been detained, released, and granted bail on three separate occasions, in line with the judicial process,” the statement reads. “Throughout this ordeal, Famous has remained determined to pursue the matter through the courts.”
During the latest hearing on July 14th, Famous presented what he described as fresh evidence — a photograph allegedly linking Kao Denero to the incident, said to have occurred in February. However, the defense team pointed out that the photo was dated June 2025, calling its relevance and authenticity into question. The court subsequently ruled in favor of the defense, with the matter adjourned until later this month.
“It is now clear, both legally and publicly, that the current dispute is strictly between Famous and Meldenero & Amadu,” the statement stressed. “The earlier attempt to involve Ambassador Kao Denero was not substantiated by any credible evidence.”
Despite this, Famous has reportedly filed a new criminal complaint against the Ambassador, which Kao Denero’s legal team has confirmed.
According to his lawyer, Kao Denero was absent from court on July 14th due to medical reasons but is expected to appear at the next hearing.
“Every citizen, including Famous, has the constitutional right to seek redress through the courts,” Black Leo acknowledged, but also questioned the motives behind what it described as Famous’s “relentless pursuit.”
The management highlighted what it called “repeated provocations and public mockery” from Famous towards Kao Denero over the years, often disguised as “artistic banter or industry rivalry.”
Efforts by various stakeholders to mediate the dispute and encourage Famous to withdraw the case have reportedly failed.
In their statement, Black Leo praised Kao Denero’s conduct throughout the saga. “Ambassador Kao Denero has conducted himself with dignity and restraint,” the management said. “Apart from the issue he once had with Madson, the Ambassador has maintained a clean personal and professional record — a key reason behind his appointment by His Excellency as the country’s Entertainment Ambassador.”
The management also revealed that another prominent Black Leo team member has taken separate legal action against Famous for alleged defamation and character assassination against Kao Denero.
Reassuring fans and supporters, Black Leo said, “Ambassador Kao Denero remains safe, focused, and dedicated to his ambassadorial responsibilities, including preparations for the upcoming ECOWAS Festival and national campaigns on promoting local streaming content.” They also confirmed his continued leadership of Black Leo’s ongoing projects, including a new compilation and his recently released single *Palava*.
“We thank the public and all well-wishers for their continued support and understanding during this time,” Black Leo concluded.
