A High Court in Kumasi has adjourned to October 28, 2025, a case filed by Akosua Serwaa, the wife of the late Ghanaian highlife legend Daddy Lumba, in which she is seeking a legal declaration as the only surviving spouse and the sole individual entitled to perform widowhood rites at his upcoming funeral.
Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, passed away on July 26, 2025, with his final funeral rites scheduled for December 6 at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi. However, the planned event now faces uncertainty as a result of the pending legal dispute.
The Case and Court Proceedings
Akosua Serwaa has taken legal action against Kofi Owusu Fosu, the head of the late musician’s extended family, and Priscilla Ofori, popularly known as “Odo Broni”, over the organisation of the funeral and public claims surrounding Daddy Lumba’s death.
During proceedings on Thursday, October 16, lawyers for the defendants informed the court that they had filed to challenge the capacity of the applicant (Akosua Serwaa) to bring the case. However, Her Ladyship Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur declined to hear the objection, noting that the issue was not formally before the court at the time.
The plaintiff’s counsel, William Kusi, argued that the court should proceed with hearing an injunction application to restrain Odo Broni from publicly presenting herself as Lumba’s widow.
After hearing submissions from both sides, the judge urged the parties to attempt an amicable settlement, but assured that the case would receive priority if it moves forward. She directed all parties to file their responses within 14 days.
Plaintiff’s Position
Akosua Serwaa insists she is the legally wedded wife of Daddy Lumba and that their marriage was still valid at the time of his death. She claims she and her children were not consulted about the funeral arrangements and only discovered the date through social media.
According to her, the family head informed her that she would not be allowed to perform widowhood rites, a traditional role reserved for the lawful spouse. She also alleges that Odo Broni began presenting herself as Lumba’s widow after his death and that the family appears to support her in performing the rites.
Serwaa is asking the court to intervene and restrain Odo Broni from taking on any public role as the spouse of the deceased, arguing that any such action would be unlawful and a violation of her rights as Lumba’s legal wife.
Implications for the Funeral
Lawyer William Kusi expressed hope that the case would be resolved swiftly to avoid disrupting the funeral plans:
“We’re committed to protecting the integrity of Lumba. We’re ready to ensure the date for the funeral comes on,” he said.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the organisation and cultural legitimacy of the final funeral rites of one of Ghana’s most iconic musicians.
The matter is set to resume on October 28, with the court expected to determine the way forward if no out-of-court resolution is reached.
