Musician Nii Tebil, formerly known as Zigi Shanzy, has offered a different account of the circumstances surrounding the road accident that claimed the life of Hiplife star Terry Bonchaka in October 2003.

Speaking on the Classy Morning Show on Class 91.3 FM with DJ Slim, he said observations at the accident scene suggested that Bonchaka was in the passenger seat, while his associate, Rasta, appeared to have been behind the steering wheel.

His account contrasts with earlier claims that Bonchaka was driving the vintage Morris Coupe convertible and had refused to allow anyone else to drive because he wanted to show off the vehicle.

Nii Tebil said the car was an antique that was not in good condition and required repairs, including the installation of a different engine.

Although he could not remember the specific engine used, he said: “The capacity of the engine was bigger than that of the car.”

He added that Bonchaka had been advised against using the vehicle.

“His big brother Jerry told him [that]. But he just wanted to show off. It wasn't like he intentionally [wanted to disobey],” he said.

According to Nii Tebil, Bonchaka appeared eager to take the car to the University of Ghana, Legon, to display it.

“It wasn't like he didn't want to listen [to the advice], but he felt it had been too long and he needed the car to [show off], but it was rather unfortunate [he died in it],” he added.

However, event organiser and TV producer Paa Kwesi Ackom, who booked Bonchaka for the popular Music Music show in Kumasi, gave a different account of who was driving.

Speaking to DJ Slim, Mr Ackom said Rasta had told him that he drove the car to the University of Ghana, Legon, but Bonchaka took over on their way back.

According to Mr Ackom, Rasta said Bonchaka attempted to overtake a taxi carrying a group of musicians who had performed at the same event. However, the attempt failed when the headlights of an oncoming vehicle blinded them. The car then hit a bump in the road, skidded off the highway and crashed into a tree.