A High Court in Kumasi has adjourned to October 28, 2025, a civil case brought by Akosua Serwaa, the wife of late Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba, in which she seeks judicial recognition as the sole surviving spouse entitled to perform widowhood rites at his funeral.

Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, died on July 26, 2025. His final funeral rites are scheduled to take place on December 6 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. However, the funeral arrangements may be impacted by the ongoing legal dispute.

The plaintiff, Akosua Serwaa, is contesting the authority of Kofi Owusu Fosu, head of the late musician’s extended family, and Priscilla Ofori, also known as “Odo Broni,” over the organization of the funeral. She is seeking a court injunction to prevent Ofori from representing herself publicly as Lumba’s surviving spouse and from performing any widowhood rites.

During proceedings held on October 16, defense counsel indicated that a motion had been filed to challenge Serwaa’s legal capacity to initiate the suit. However, Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur declined to hear the motion, noting that the issue was not listed for argument that day.

Counsel for the plaintiff, William Kusi, countered that the day’s proceedings were meant to address an injunction application. After hearing submissions from both parties, the judge encouraged an out-of-court settlement but emphasized that the matter would be treated as a priority if it proceeds to trial.

The defendants have also filed a conditional appearance motion, pending resolution of the substantive case. The court instructed all parties to submit their responses within 14 days.

Mr. Kusi expressed concern that the litigation could delay the funeral, warning that failure to resolve the dispute promptly might interfere with scheduled funeral rites. “We are committed to protecting the integrity of Lumba,” he said. “We’re ready to ensure the date for the funeral comes on.”

Plaintiff’s Position

Akosua Serwaa asserts that she remains the legally recognized wife of the late musician and was not consulted by the family prior to the public announcement of the funeral date, which she learned of via social media. She further alleges that the family head communicated an intention to permit Odo Broni to perform the widowhood rites — a move Serwaa contends is unlawful and contrary to custom and legal precedent.

According to the plaintiff, Odo Broni has claimed to have been married to Daddy Lumba and to have had children with him, although no official documentation has been submitted in court to validate that claim.

Serwaa’s suit seeks a court declaration affirming her exclusive right to perform widowhood rites and participate in the funeral as the deceased’s lawful spouse.

The case is scheduled to resume on October 28, 2025.

Source:TheDotNews