Modou Musa Ceesay has “ vehemently denied” reports that he absconded in the United States of America after a failed attempt to take part in  the 17th Edition of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), held in Hollywood, California. 

According to reports reaching What’s On-Gambia, the popular actor was expected in the country two weeks ago. He is now staying in Minnesota, unknown to the National Council of Arts and Council (NCAC). 

WCOPA is an international competition that is out to discover the best aspiring performing artists worldwide. It is held annually in Hollywood, a district in the city of Los Angeles that has become famous as the cradle of the American film industry. 

In an interview with What’s On-Gambia, Modou Musa disclosed that he received no financial support from the NCAC. 

“I applied to take part in the WCOPA competition and sent them my profile, with all the movies I acted. They accepted me, but said I have to pay for my trip, accommodation and feeding.  So I wrote a letter to the president requesting for sponsorship and he agreed to support me.  He offered me 4,850 US Dollars. From that amount I paid 2,833 US Dollars to DJ Lil Sisqo of 2rays Syndicate, because he was responsible for facilitating the trip. The rest of the money I used to buy the flight ticket to Washington,” said Modou Musa 

According to him, upon arriving in Washington he contacted DJ Lil Sisqo, who was expected to accompany him to Hollywood. “He lives in Norway and unfortunately he told me that he couldn’t make it to the US. How can I go to Hollywood without the agent I paid money to?” 

The popular actor added; “I decided to lobby for contacts within the USA.  Hollywood assured me of a place, next year.  I was in touch with Gambian producer, Pa Ousman. He wants to do a production with me, so am working on that. I’m also working with the Gambian community in Minnesota to premier the Hand of Faith movie. When I am done, I will surely find my way home.” 

According to a source in the Gambian movie industry, the rumor that Modou Musa absconded was orchestrated by some NCAC insiders, but we were unable to confirm this.